What is Naturopathic Medicine?

I have the pleasure of collaborating with Dr. Carrie Dennie, a licensed Naturopath in Grand Rapids, MI. This week, I asked her to explain what she does and who it helps.

Naturopathic medicine is a holistic system of medicine that supports the natural healing ability of the body. It is a combination of the wisdom of nature and the rigors of modern science and medicine. Licensed Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage clients with acute and chronic conditions while addressing disease and dysfunction at the body, mind, and spirit levels. NDs focus on whole-person wellness through health promotion and disease prevention while identifying and addressing the underlying causes of each person’s condition. NDs specialize in natural healing modalities such as nutrition and lifestyle counseling, vitamins, minerals, and botanical supplements, homeopathy, clinical and functional lab testing, pharmacology, drug-nutrient interactions, and more.

Dr. Carrie Dennie is a proud Naturopathic Doctor. She aims to build a trustful relationship with her clients and provide a wellness plan that is tailored to the individual and their lifestyle. She is also passionate about educating and empowering her clients to participate in managing and advocating for their own health actively.

The art of practicing Naturopathic medicine is working individually with each person to help them understand what is going on in their body to make educated choices regarding their health care. Dr. Carrie’s goal is to equip and empower each person with the tools to maintain and advocate for their health. She offers more time in her appointments than most clients have experienced with their other doctors. She recognizes the importance of holding space for her clients to be heard and understood. Dr. Carrie considers it a great privilege to be entrusted with her client’s well-being.

Dr. Carrie Dennie owns Vibrant Wellness, a natural health clinic in Grand Rapids offering Naturopathic Care, Nutritional Consultations, and Acupuncture.

The Hidden Health Costs of Negative Thought Patterns

In the intricate landscape of our minds, thought patterns shape our perceptions, behaviors, and even our health. Negative thought patterns, characterized by persistent pessimism, self-doubt, and catastrophic thinking, can take a toll on both mental and physical health.

Negative thought patterns encompass a range of cognitive distortions, wherein individuals interpret reality through a skewed lens, veering towards negativity and hopelessness. Take, for instance, the phenomenon of "catastrophizing." Someone prone to this pattern might magnify minor setbacks, envisioning them as catastrophic failures, thus perpetuating stress and anxiety. When one thing goes “wrong” it sets off a cascade of thoughts anticipating every possible subsequent negative outcome.  Not only does one have thoughts about all the “bad” things that may unfold, but you experience feelings of anxiety and angst as if they have already happened!

The repercussions of these patterns extend far beyond fleeting feelings of sadness or frustration. Research has linked chronic negative thinking to numerous health issues, including heightened stress levels, weakened immune function, and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, prolonged exposure to negative thoughts can exacerbate mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, fostering a vicious cycle of despair.

Yet, amidst the gloom, there is hope. Recognizing and challenging negative thought patterns is the first step towards reclaiming mental well-being. Cognitive restructuring, mindfulness practices, and positive affirmations, gratitude can all help disrupt entrenched patterns, fostering a more balanced and resilient mindset.

At Seeds of Health DPC, we understand that many factors influence your health, which is why we take the time to go beneath the surface.  If you struggle with negative thought patterns and believe it is taking a toll on you, consider connecting with a therapist. Listen to my podcast “The Lifestyle MD” for further insights and strategies to deal with issues like this and more. Looking for a new primary care doctor, join Seeds of Health DPC on a journey towards improved health, physical well-being, mental clarity, and vitality.