Robin Costello Acupuncture Exeter

Happy Autumn Equinox. The sunshine has returned this week, so as the scales now tip in favour of the Yin & the days shorten, try to find time for regular outdoor activities. It seems that even sun on the skin may stimulate serotonin production to help buoy up our mood. Here are some photos I took on our autumn walk last week.

Good news for all gardeners: we know that gardening is associated with better mental & physical health, partly due to exercise, fresh air & contact with nature. A new mechanism has been emerging though, and that's contact with soil. The University of Helsinki has recently shown that this can improve our immune regulation & levels of anti-inflammatories in our blood. (Wear gloves whenever you're waiting for a cut to heal though.) Details at https://www.acupuncture-exeter.co.uk/category/longevity-health-preservation/

Researchers at Aston University School of Optometry have called for more advice to be given to young people about preventing dry eye disease. Sufferers may have gritty sensations, itching or stinging, redness, sensitivity to light and blurry vision. There are several risk factors for dry eye disease, including stress & wearing contact lenses. In the 18-25 age group, a major risk factor though is screen use, & the young people in the Aston study averaged 8 hours a day on screen.
If this sounds like you, then take regular screen breaks, consciously blink while on screen, & drink plenty of water. A diet including sources of omega-3 fatty acids, such as oily fish, is also important, as is regular sleep.
If you wear contact lenses, get regular check-ups. More at
https://www.acupuncture-exeter.co.uk/category/eyes/