6 health secrets from different countries

April 2, 2015 7:15 PM

From acupuncture in China to a special herbal tea in Argentina, people of different cultures have some serious wellness tricks up their sleeves.

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Around the world, people from all races and cultures have their own systems when it comes to staying healthy, mentally and physically.

From acupuncture in China to a special herbal tea in Argentina, people of different cultures have some serious wellness tricks up their sleeves.

Here are 6 top practices from different parts of the world that could be helpful to you. View pictures for each diet or procedure listed below, in gallery.

INDIA: MEDITATION

You may have heard that the quiet practice of meditation can improve your stress and mental health. Well get this, Studies show that meditation can actually improve cellular health and reduce blood pressure, pain response, and depression.

"The relaxation response [from meditation] helps decrease metabolism, lowers blood pressure, and improves heart rate, breathing, and brain waves," says Herbert Benson, MD, who's well-known for three decades of research of the health effects of meditation.

CHINA: ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture which Originated in China, has been practiced for thousands of years, and is now popular among many Americans.

Some of the research done on Acupuncture backed positives; regular sessions can improve heart health, lower blood pressure, help you shed pounds, and speed up the production of neurotransmitters associated with relaxation, improving quality of sleep.

GREECE: THE MEDITERRENEAN DIET

Eating a diet that focuses on fresh fruits and vegetables, fish and poultry, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil can do wonders for your health.

If you eat like the Greeks do, you'll lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, and eye complications. Plus, focusing on these Mediterranean staples will keep your weight in check.

SWITZERLAND: MUESLI

Muesli was invented by a Swiss doctor over a hundred years ago for patients in his hospital, and now it's popular to serve in the country as a filling breakfast or light dinner. A combination of rolled oats, grains, seeds, and dried fruit, fiber-rich muesli is so easy to make on your own.

EGYPT: CUPPING THERAPY

This is a form of alternative medicine that dates back to ancient Egyptian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern cultures. Cupping therapy is the process of creating suction to mobilize blood flow and promote healing.

The British Cupping Society is a main proponent of the therapy and argues that it can treat skin problems, high blood pressure, and blood disorders like anemia.

However, many health care societies are unsure of this age-old treatment's benefits. "Reports of successful treatment with cupping are mainly anecdotal rather than from research studies," said the American Cancer Society.

RUSSIA: BANYA (SAUNA)

The Russian banya, or sauna, is a relaxation and weight-loss method that many people swear by. Depending on your weight, they believe you can burn between 300 calories in a sweat session.

Also, sauna visits can improve your skin, increase circulation, strengthen your immune system, reduce respiratory ailments, and balance your mind and emotions.