WATCH: Tips for protecting yourself from the sun

Weighing the Risk

We’re all at some risk for melanoma, no matter what our skin tone or genetic predisposition. But there are several factors that make some of us more likely to develop the disease than others.

Greater sun exposure: UVA and UVB rays are dangerous to our skin and can bring on skin cancers like melanoma. Unsurprisingly, people who live in sunny locales like Florida and Arizona are more vulnerable. And though you’ve probably read it in the papers or heard it on the news: steer clear of tanning booths and beds, which increase your exposure to harmful rays.

Skin moles: There are actually two kinds of moles: 1) the normal small brownish spots and 2) the atypical mole, which is irregular in shape and usually black or brown (though they can also be skin-colored, pink, red, purple, blue or white). The more moles you have on your body, the greater your risk for melanoma. This is because melanoma not only can resemble a mole, but also can develop from one. Just because you have a couple of freckles on your body doesn’t mean you necessarily have to worry, but keeping tabs on new moles or those that might be changing in color, shape or size gets you one step ahead. The next section offers more helpful insight on prevention. 

Skin type: Dermatologists use a method called The Fitzpatrick Scale to classify skin type and the response of different types to UV light, measuring things like genetic disposition, reaction to sun exposure, and tanning habits. People with lighter skin are more likely to develop skin cancer in general. You should wear SPF on a daily basis no matter what, but consult your doctor for more skincare advice based on your specific skin type. Here are the six categories:

• Type I: Light, pale white skin that always burns and never tans.
• Type II: White, fair skin that usually burns and tans with difficulty.
• Type III: Medium, white to olive skin that will sometimes burn mildly and gradually tans to an olive tone.
• Type IV: Olive to moderate brown skin that rarely burns and tans with ease.
• Type V: Brown or dark brown skin that very rarely burns and tans very easily.
• Type VI: Black or very dark brown skin that never burns, tans easily, and is deeply pigmented.

Family history: One in every 10 patients diagnosed with melanoma has a family member with a history of the skin cancer. In fact, you are 50 percent more likely to develop melanoma if your mother, father, sibling or child had it. A doctor will recommend close relatives to be examined if one family member is diagnosed.

RELATED: Holistic skin care for every season  

What to Look For
Melanoma is almost always curable if it is recognized and treated in its early stages. That’s why it’s important to conduct your own full-body exam once a month, tracking any new moles or drastic changes in size, shape and color. Excessive itchiness, bleeding or wounds that won’t heal are also telltale signs of melanoma. There are two physician-approved strategies to help with early detection.

Know your ABCDE’s: Look for (A) asymmetry in the mole’s shape (B) borders with uneven, scalloped or notched edges (C) colors like black, red, blue, or a variety of different shades in the same mole (D) diameters larger than the size of a pencil eraser and (E) evolving size, shape or elevation.

Beware of the ugly duckling: An individual’s moles tend to resemble one another. Cancerous moles (“ugly ducklings”) will deviate from these uniform characteristics, either by size, shade or color.

RELATED: Which sunscreens are safe to use on my baby?

Preventing the Problem

You should always wear a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher, no matter what season it is or how long you’ll be in the sun. Think of it as part of your daily skincare routine. But keeping your skin healthy doesn’t stop there. Here’s what else you can do to prevent melanoma and other types of skin cancer:

• Learn to love the shade! Stay out of the sun as much as possible, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when rays are at their strongest.
• Don’t let your skin burn. Avoid tanning and tanning booths.
• Cover up with clothes, broad-rimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• If you’re going to be outside for an extended period of time, use water-resistant broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
• Smooth on one ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunblock 30 minutes before you go outside and then reapply every two hours or right after swimming and excessive sweating.
• Newborns should stay out of the sun and sunscreen should be used on babies older than six months.
• Give yourself monthly skin checks and make an appointment for a professional exam once a year.

More from this author:

9 Reasons Why Being In Love is Good For You

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Katarina Kovacevic is a freelance writer specializing in travel, spa, and beauty and wellness. She's the author of The Food Lovers' Guide to Phoenix & Scottsdale and founder/editor of Style Jaunt, a blog about fashionable travel. Her work has appeared in publications like American Spa, The Knot, The New York Post, SheKnows.com and more. Follow her on Twitter @Little_K.

Are you organized or disorganized? How is your image at work, within your team and your company? Do you feel like you are always struggling with people and projects? Do you feel like you are never able to get ahead at work? Are the people in your office always a bother?

RELATED: Feng Shui for the Workplace

How to Space Clear Your Desk

Cleaning your workspace:The number one topic for space clearing is, clear your clutter! Tidy up, so that you can start feeling rejuvenated and begin accomplishing all that you need to. When I come to work with a clear desk, I feel like I’m prepared for the day.

• Rid your sacred workspace of clutter, including on your desk, in drawers, in cabinets and on the floor.
• Don’t take this whole project on at once if you don’t have the time. Allocate extra time in the morning to get one area done. Maybe you only have time for one drawer. That’s fine. You are working efficiently even when you conquer small projects.
• When organizing your folders, why not use colored ones? Make your folders fun!
• Purchase new pens and notebooks that represent your personality. We are kids at heart and still love these small touches.

• Where is your trash can? Is it where everyone can see it? Energetically, when someone walks by your desk area, if they are able to see your waste can, they are throwing away all of their “garbage” when they see it. Yikes!
• Use green, non-toxic cleaning products to clean your desk, mouse, telephone, cabinets and shelves.
• Conscious thoughts like “I’m dusting off the past, cleaning for the now, to allow fresh new energy into my desk space,” are great affirmations to think about as you are cleaning.

WATCH: A Guide to Feng Shui

Personalizing Your Workspace

• Take a look at all of the personal belongings in your space. Do they represent the genuine you? Get rid of objects or pictures that don’t bring you happiness or old memories that no longer serve you.
• Sometimes we really enjoy media fads. But have you ever thought about what kind of energy it brings to your environment? None of us really want to be working with or around zombies, skulls, dragons, etc. These images have energy-draining components. Keep them away!
• Flowers brighten up everyone’s day. Bringing new vitality into your office is a great way to get the energy flowing! You may want to bring in flowers with less of an aromatic scent, in case someone in the office is allergic.

Energizing Your Workspace

• We all need to be rejuvenated throughout the day. Why not give yourself some refreshing mists in the air? Make an aromatherapy concoction yourself, or do a little shopping for aromatherapy mists in the market. Lemongrass, eucalyptus, lavender, mint, lemon and citrus are all great.
• Make it your magic; the conscious intent of one spray and squirt goes a long way to rejuvenate you and your space. As you make that one spray, affirm – “I’m rejuvenating my space and allowing clear revitalizing energy into my day!”
• Please note, I’m not recommending harsh chemical air fresheners found in mega retailers. Spraying these in our office environment can be harmful to everyone, creating allergic reactions and releasing toxics chemicals into the air.

LEARN: A Guide to Well-Being With Aromatherapy

As you look at your sacred workspace, know that small daily changes can make a huge difference. You will see a shift in your energy as you make these changes, which will allow you to accomplish more and have a better sense of balance.

You Might Also Like:

Meditation Tips At Work

Home Office Diffuser Blend

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: When not working in the corporate world as a marketing manager, Sara Egert focuses her passion and enthusiasm on feng shui and yoga. Her transformational journey started as a student of the Western School of Feng Shui, completing multiple 30-day yoga challenges, and recently finishing her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training. Sara also owns Whimsical Feng Shui, consulting with people on how to improve their balance and energies in personal and/or work environments.

 
How Much Sleep Do We Need? 

How much sleep do you think you need as an adult? The truth is that the amount of sleep you need varies depending on your age. As we get older, we need less sleep.

Newborns require 12 to 18 hours, while children typically need 10 to 11 hours each night. Teens require a minimum of eight to nine hours (so let them sleep in on Saturday!), while adults need seven to nine hours of rest per night.

VIDEO: Silk, Your Best Friend For Beauty Sleep

When was the last time you got that much uninterrupted sleep? David Dinges, head of Hospital at University of Pennsylvania’s Sleep and Chronobiology Laboratory, is in the business of depriving people of their sleep for research and scientific study.

In 2003, he conducted the longest sleep restriction study with author Hans Van Dongen and grouped subjects into three sleep duration segments – four, six and eight hours – over a two-week time period.

VIDEO: Insomnia Buster-Yoga Class Full 44 Minutes: Yoga For Life

Most of us know that we aren't at our best or peak performance level when we are deprived of sleep. Dinges’ study measured the subjects’ ability to sustain good attention using psychomotor vigilance task (PVT), the standard measurement for the effects of sleepiness. 

Men and women were required to press a space bar as soon as they saw a flash of numbers at random intervals in order to measure response times. Subjects with four to six hours of sleep showed steadily declining PVT results.

Why You Need Good Sleep

Quality sleep has a positive effect on our performance and overall mood, health and well-being. Sleep helps in the following ways:

• Improved memory
• Sharpened attention span
• Improved mood and happiness
• Lower stress and blood pressure levels
• Improved stamina during exercise and sports
• Reduced inflammation and risk for heart disease
• Supports healthy weight management

How to Reset Your Clock

The National Sleep Foundation, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and WebMD provide tips that are guaranteed to help you fall asleep and stay asleep longer:

• Make sure your mattress and pillow are comfortable. Not too firm and not too soft.  Invest in a quality mattress.
• Engage in deep breathing. 
• Establish a bedtime routine and stick to it.Train your body to rest at a regular time.
• Too much on your mind? Try writing it down on paper. Get it out of your head before bed.
• Block out annoying noises with a fan. The white noise will help neutralize external sounds and help you fall asleep.

Researchers are currently linking decline in sleep quality and long term effects of sleep deprivation to early onset of Alzheimer's and other conditions associated with aging. 

Perhaps many of the most pervasive conditions such as the risk of heart attack, stroke and other debilitating diseases can be lowered by getting into the habit of a good night’s sleep. That might be incentive enough to start making a change sooner rather than later. 

 

You Might Also Like:
READ: How To Fight Sleep Apnea
VIDEO: Snooze Away With These Do’s & Don’ts For Falling Asleep

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Stefanie Gomez is an eco-lover who writes about healthy living. She writes for Essentia and other outlets.

Mom Myth:  Walking barefoot or sitting on cold tile can cause reproductive issues.

Expert Opinion: According to Giuseppe F. Ramunno, M.D., an obstetrician and gynecologist with Arizona Associates for Women’s Health, there is no scientific evidence to prove this old wives’ tale.

"But Chinese medicine considers healthy circulation important in preventing infertility," he says. “Maintaining good circulation, especially around the lower back and abdomen, also may prevent the occurrence of endometriosis, period pain, blood clots, polycystic ovaries or a blocked fallopian tube.”

So how does a gal improve her circulation? Keeping the lower back warm is a start, but Dr. Ramunno also advises women not to sit on hard, cold floors. "The body will absorb the coldness and affect uterus circulation, especially in the winter."

RELATED: How Ginger Tea Helps With Circulation

Mom Myth: A draft or strong breeze – especially on your exposed neck and back – causes everything from head and muscle aches to colds and infections.

Expert Opinion: “Infections are generally passed through contact with a sick person via airborne droplets, direct contact or ingestion,” explains Ben Evans, M.D., owner of Vitality Internal Medicine. “Getting wet or being in a draft does not cause illness, but it could make the symptoms of an illness feel worse.” But is it possible that the draft carries airborne droplets further? “Sure, I’ll buy that,” he says.

Mom Myth: Silk pillowcases prevent wrinkles and won’t crease your hair, which means more time between washes.

Expert Opinion: “True!" says Melissa Lenberg, owner of Citrine Natural Beauty Bar. “Silk pulls less on your face and hair than cotton does.” Steve Mason, stylist and director of education for Brillare Hairdressing Academy, adds: “The smooth surface keeps hair from becoming frizzy and tangled. Silk pillowcases are a good way to preserve your blowout."

RELATED: Tips For Buying Non-Toxic Pillows

Mom Myth: Need a bit of definition in your curls? Just add beer!

Expert Opinion: This is false – kind of. While beer won’t necessarily hold your curls, Mason says that its wheat proteins and Vitamin B, two ingredients found in many of your favorite hair products, can give your mane extra body. Hoping for a natural hold for your coiled tresses? Try gelatin or egg whites, which can be used like mousse.

Mom Myth: Olive oil removes waterproof mascara and helps get rid of dark circles around your eyes.

Expert Opinion: “Olive oil is a relatively safe and effective makeup remover,” says Rhonda Allison, founder and CEO of Rhonda Allison Clinical Enterprises. “But for addressing dark circles naturally, I recommend chrysin (passion flower extract) or arnica (a member of the sunflower family)."

Mom Myth: Egg whites and lemon juice tighten your face and minimize pores.

Expert Opinion: “The protein and vitamins in egg whites can provide skin-tightening and nourishing benefits," says Allison. “But I would caution those with related allergies to steer clear. You also run the risk of introducing unwanted elements to your skin – like hormones and pesticides – if the eggs aren’t organic." Lemon juice does contain natural acids and essential oils, but Allison doesn’t advise applying it to your entire face as it can result in a pH imbalance and irritation. Instead, use it to spot treat acne.

RELATED: The 5 Fruits & Veggies You Must Buy Organic

Mom Myth: Honey mixed with cinnamon cures everything! That includes burns and acne.

Expert Opinion: “Honey does provide wonderful moisturizing, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties," explains Allison. “I would combine it with other ingredients for enhanced results. Cinnamon is wonderful in small doses. Since it is a spice, keep in mind that it can cause irritation if not used properly. That said, it is a wonderful healer and skin purifier."

Mom Myth: Wet the back of your neck with cold water when you have a nosebleed to slow down blood flow.

Expert Opinion: “Coagulation, or clotting of the blood, is promoted by placing a cold compress on the bridge of your nose, your cheeks, or the back of your neck," says Dr. Evans. “But if bleeding persists for more than 20 minutes, you should seek medical attention."

More From This Author:

Traveling to Unplug

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Katarina Kovacevic is a freelance writer specializing in travel, spa, and beauty and wellness. She's the author of The Food Lovers' Guide to Phoenix & Scottsdale and founder/editor of Style Jaunt, a blog about fashionable travel. Her work has appeared in publications like American Spa, The Knot, Unboudary by USA Today, SheKnows.com and more. Follow her on Twitter @Little_K

Q: 

What do you recommend for allergies?

A: 

If we're talking about allergic rhinitis or hay fever, then Ayurveda teaches us a number of useful things. Given its association with inflammation that then leads to mucus, congestion and other afflictions of the respiratory system, Ayurveda considers hay fever and other forms of allergic rhinitis to be an aggravation of both the Pitta and Kapha energies that sit in the stomach and head/chest regions, respectively. In Ayurveda, the immune system’s strength is directly related to the strength of the digestive system: With weak digestion, we have a weak immune system. When our immune system weakens, our body then produces moisture, with the intention of reinforcing the body’s tissues for the duration of the body’s vulnerable and weakened state. This moisture is indicative of the aggravation of our Kapha element, and with this imbalance comes the congestion indicative of hay fever symptoms.

In avoiding symptoms of hay fever, the first step is to strengthen digestion with proper food choices and eating habits. This will balance the digestive fire associated with the Pitta element and lead to a lessening of inflammation in the affected areas. It is also important to utilize therapies that, along with stabilizing the digestive fire in the stomach, lessen the incidence of mucus in the head and chest region. It is important to reduce the intake of foods that create more heat in the body and aggravate Pitta energy, like spicy foods, caffeinated beverages like coffee, alcohol, and sour foods like yogurt and pickles. It is also important to avoid heavy foods that are difficult to digest and produce more Kapha energy in the body, such as red meat, dairy products like cheese and ice cream, sweet fruits like strawberries and raspberries and sugary sweets like candy and cake.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
5 Tips For Natural Energy Through Food
Detox Tips To Spring Clean Your Body
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Serendipitously, I read three articles about raising guide dog puppies in local publications. I contacted the local chapter of Guiding Eyes for the Blind and started attending puppy-raising class to see if it would be a fit.

RELATED: Are Pet Owners Healthier?

One look at the Labrador puppies was all it took to get me to commit to puppy-raising. After completing our training, my husband and I brought home Fairfax, an eight-week-old black Lab, and began teaching him manners, obedience skills, and sociability.

We had the support of experienced Delaware puppy raisers who provided us with a crate and other essentials, as well as counseling and training tips. A region manager from Guiding Eyes for the Blind attended our biweekly puppy classes and was available by phone anytime we needed her.

Based in New York with raisers up and down the East Coast, Guiding Eyes for the Blind is a nationally accredited non-profit organization that provides an independent lifestyle for the blind and visually impaired. The organization uses relationship-based training methods to keep the experience positive for the puppy raisers and dogs. Many people raise dog after dog for Guiding Eyes. 

WATCH: How Massage Helps Dogs

We had Fairfax for a year before he returned to Guiding Eyes for training. Then we immediately brought home AJ, a slightly older black Lab puppy who helped fill up the space Fairfax held in our lives. AJ gave me renewed confidence in my ability to prepare a dog for one of the most important jobs he can have. 

When AJ went to training, we got Tchita, a five-month-old female Lab. And after each of the three dogs we raised attended five months of training at Guiding Eyes, they became working guide dogs.

As hard as it was to send each dog back to Guiding Eyes for training, the excitement of hearing about their progress in guide dog training quickly replaced those feelings. And each of the three times we learned that one of our dogs had been placed with a blind person was truly  extraordinary. We got to talk on the phone with each of our dogs’ new owners and are still in touch with all three of them, regularly hearing wonderful stories about the impact the dogs make on their lives. The dogs could not be happier, of course.

WATCH: Puppy Training With Brittany

Fairfax gets to go to work every day with his owner and receives his own invitation to the weekly team meetings. AJ goes camping with his owner every summer. Tchita gets to play on the beach in Halifax, and in every photo her owner sends us, she’s cuddling with someone.

Guide dogs are extraordinary, bred for and capable of bringing independence, joy, peace and love to others. They deeply impact their owners’ lives, but also the lives of their puppy raisers and the entire community in which those raisers live. Our dogs have brought awareness of blindness and disabilities to our friends and family members.

Studies show that people who volunteer and who have pets are happier and more satisfied with their lives. Guide dog puppy raisers fall into both of those categories, and the Guiding Eyes puppy raisers and staff members I know radiate generosity, warmth and happiness.

I will always be grateful for my experience raising puppies for Guiding Eyes. I now live outside their puppy-raising territory, but I have a daily reminder of my wonderful experience – my dog, Dylan, a Guiding Eyes puppy who was released for adoption at eight weeks. Through Dylan, I get to maintain my connection to Guiding Eyes. I will always consider myself a devoted part of their family.

You Might Also Like:
Natural Companions with Tyson Kilmer
7 Human Foods You Can Feed Your Dog

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Katie Ginder-Vogel is a freelance writer and editor based in Madison, Wis. She holds Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in English from Stanford University. An avid runner, hiker, and swimmer, Katie writes regularly about health and wellness. She has two children and a dog, who keep her company on the trail, on the road, and in the pool.

In the United Kingdom, 13 million people suffer from “Nomophobia” – no mobile phobia – and feel anxious when their cell phone is lost or out of service.

By 2015, the global average number of business emails sent and received per day, per person, will increase from 105 to 125.

Why should you care?

Because we’re addicted to our technology!

RELATED: 4 Simple Tips for Unplugging

The tourism industry is responding with digital detox vacations – your chance to say sayonara to all of your technological ties. Well, at least for a little while.

Staff at The Digital Detox use yoga, meditation, healthy food and serene settings to bring travelers into a comfortable state of personal exploration. The company plans three- to five-day wellness retreats in destinations from California to Cambodia. On day one, they ask participants to hand over their phones and tech gear.

“There is often a feeling of unease, but underlying that is excitement,” says Ben Hanna, coordinator with The Digital Detox. “They go through phases. People worry that they’ll miss something important. Eventually, they become comfortable with it.”

How do they calm guests’ nerves about the handoff?

“We focus their attention on what is happening now, not what they just turned off,” he explains. “Getting outside is incredibly fun, and most of us don’t do it enough. Participants are spending time next to a bubbling creak, on a mountain, or overlooking a meadow. They’re living in the moment.”

The organization treats these vacations like traditional recovery programs to the degree that they remove triggers from participants’ lives for a period of time. By breaking up their normal routines, The Digital Detox allows travelers to avoid that feeling of “need” for their e-communications. 

RELATED: 10 Wellness Retreats for Every Type of Traveler

After conducting their own independent study, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) Tourism Authority discovered that nearly 50 percent of travelers felt tied down by technology. In response, the organization partnered with Black Tomato to offer unplugged travel experiences.

“We wanted to challenge travelers to focus on the well-being of the mind and body,” says Glen Beache, CEO of SVG tourism. “By unplugging from their devices, they can have a real vacation – one focused on human interaction.”

Trips are designed to completely wean people off technology and include a guidebook on how to “de-tech.” The seven-night getaway includes flights from New York City, accommodations on Young Island and Palm Island, and a private catamaran day transfer.

Even hotels are doing their part to improve guest wellness. In the United States, Hotel Monaco in Chicago offers a tranquility suite and technology break package, and the Quincy in Washington, D.C. offers a “Be Unplugged” special.

Abroad, The Westin Dublin can stash your electronics in a safe and in exchange give you a “survival kit” that includes a board game, walking map, and tree-planting kit. In the Caribbean and Mexico, Marriott Resorts are rolling out “Braincation Zones.” These designated areas encourage guests to disconnect and enjoy their surroundings with magazines, books, and flavored water.

“We are all victims of life’s hustle and bustle,” says Beache. “Every now and again, it’s healthy to take a step back and unwind with a vacation.” 

You Might Also Enjoy:
PLAYLIST: 14 Ways to Travel Well
Relaxation Tips for Anxiety
100% Natural Motion Sickness Cures

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Katarina Kovacevic is a freelance writer specializing in travel, spa, and beauty and wellness. She's the author of The Food Lovers' Guide to Phoenix & Scottsdale and founder/editor of Style Jaunt, a blog about fashionable travel. Her work has appeared in publications like American Spa, The Knot, Unboudary by USA Today, SheKnows.com and more. Follow her on Twitter @Little_K

Yep!

Being in a positive and committed relationship is actually good for you. Among other things, love helps you live longer, improves your mental well-being, and can even reduce pain and help you fight cancer. Let’s take a look at its other benefits:

1. Happy Heart: People in loving and committed relationships have lower blood pressure than those who are single. (We should note, though, that people in troubled marriages have higher blood pressure than either of these first two groups.) Plus, happy couples experience less stress over all, which improves cardiovascular health.

RELATED: Feng Shui For The Bedroom

2. Longer Life Span: Even when they’re driving you crazy, know this: Loving spouses keep you alive longer! They encourage better self-care and reinforce healthy behaviors, while dissuading bad habits. This is especially true for married men, who live longer than their single counterparts. Moral of the story? Ladies, let some of his quirks slide. And, fellas, she nags because she loves.

3. Clear, Glowing Skin: Sebum – the oily substance that mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria to clog hair follicles – feeds on stress-inducing hormones like cortisol, and that can cause acne. When you’re in a happy relationship, you have less free-floating cortisol, which means fewer breakouts and pimples!

RELATED: Couples Yoga: Not Just For Lovers

4. Better Mental Health: Feelings of love trigger the release of dopamine in your brain. This powerful neurotransmitter affects pleasure and motivation. Other displays of affection – like hugging and handholding – emit the hormone oxytocin, which lowers stress, reduces blood pressure, improves your mood and increases tolerance for pain.

5. Boosts the Immune System: Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh found that happy and relaxed people are more resistant to the common cold than those who felt anxious, hostile or depressed. So if you’re currently in a happy relationship, consider this – your partner is keeping you strong and healthy!

6. Keeps You Fit: Couples who break a sweat together have better fitness results than those who work out on their own. We also work out 12 to 15 percent harder when we’re training with a romantic partner. (Someone to impress? Healthy competition?) Reap the healthy rewards by scheduling fitness dates with your honey.

7. Reduces Pain: Holding your spouse’s hand can minimize feelings of pain. When studying people who experienced electrical shocks, researchers found that holding someone’s hand eased discomfort. The results were even more positive when the female subjects held their husbands' hands. All together now: Aww…

8. Regulates Your Cycle: A Planned Parenthood study found that women who have sex at least once a week have higher levels of estrogen – and that makes them more likely to have regular periods. So now you have it: an excuse to hit the sack. As if you needed one.

9. Helps Kill Cancer: According to researchers at the University of Iowa, ovarian cancer patients with strong emotional connections had more resilient cancer-killing white blood cells. And researchers at the Fox Chase Cancer Center found that affection between couples can bring positive change to health, even if one of the partners is fighting disease.

You Might Also Enjoy:
WATCH: Creating a Bedroom Retreat

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Katarina Kovacevic is a freelance writer specializing in travel, spa, and beauty and wellness. She's the author of The Food Lovers' Guide to Phoenix & Scottsdale and founder/editor of Style Jaunt, a blog about fashionable travel. Her work has appeared in publications like American Spa, The Knot, Unboudary by USA Today, SheKnows.com and more. Follow her on Twitter @Little_K

2. Romantic: Few things are more tranquil than a vacation in untouched nature. Banyan Tree Mayakoba (photo, bottom) caters to couples with its Romantic Getaway special, which includes spa and relaxation sessions. The Mayan Riviera resort also hosts private lagoon “drifting dinners” on a traditional dining boat. 

3. Solo: Looking for a private retreat? Check out September Solos at The BodyHoliday in St. Lucia, a wellness-focused resort. The annual event includes hosted dinners and dedicated fitness classes, as well as daily spa treatments, water and land sports activities and a sunset cruise.

 4. Girlfriends: Kohler Waters Spa at The American Club in Wisconsin focuses on the healing properties of mineral-rich water. The two-night Girlfriend’s Getaway is both relaxing and fun, and features a 50-minute massage, discount on additional services, yoga on the lake and a three-course dinner.

PLAYLIST:  14 Ways to Travel Well

5. Adventure: Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of excitement at Canyon Ranch in Lenox, Massachusetts. The all-inclusive health resort draws thrill-seekers with its lineup of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, canoeing and skiing.

6. Yoga: With epic waterfalls and rainforest surroundings, Anamaya Resort (photo, right) is a quintessential Costa Rican experience. Derived from the Sanskrit word for “good health,” Anamaya hosts several yoga retreats throughout the year that are oftentimes combined with other activities like surfing and jungle excursions.

7. Spiritual: Off the west coast of Scotland sits Holy Isle, an escape with an ancient spiritual history dating to the 6th century. Founded by a Tibetan Buddhist, Holy Isle hosts meditation and yoga retreats and courses at its Centre for World Peace and Health.

RELATED: Now Boarding, Learn To Fly Right For Better Health

8. Total Spa: The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’ Well & Being at Willow Stream Spa draws on Southwestern roots and time-tested Asian influences. The first of its kind in the United States, it offers spa and medical services, nutrition consultation and innovative fitness classes like aerial yoga.

9. Unplug: Three to five day Digital Detox retreats that take place in destinations from California to Cambodia offer total disconnect. No cell phones. No Facebook. No email. Just a group of folks looking to unwind through personal reflection, art workshops and fitness.

10. Families: The family that plays together stays together. Get your crew up and active with an all-inclusive vacation to Sandpiper Club Med in West Palm Beach, Florida. Golf and other standard activities can be supplemented with other surprising treats like trapeze lessons!

You Might Also Enjoy:
Memory Games While You Travel
VIDEO: How To Be A Wellness-Minded Traveler
5 Tips for Health Family Travel

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Katarina Kovacevic is a freelance writer specializing in travel, spa, and beauty and wellness. She's the author of The Food Lovers' Guide to Phoenix & Scottsdale and founder/editor of Style Jaunt, a blog about fashionable travel. Her work has appeared in publications like American Spa, The Knot, Unboudary by USA Today, SheKnows.com and more. Follow her on Twitter @Little_K

There are many benefits to social media, but recent studies have shown that spending too much of your life online can have a negative impact on your health.

Social Media is Addictive  For some, social media has already become much more than a way to keep up with friends. A recent study conducted by the United Kingdom’s Salford Business School at the University of Salford found that 45 percent of people feel worried when they’re not able to access their social networks. When asked to give up their technology for a full day, participants began exhibiting symptoms like those often seen in smokers trying to quit, and the majority of them couldn’t make it the full 24 hours without their phones, computers or tablets.

RELATED: 4 Simple Tips for Unplugging

It Can Hurt Your Self-Esteem How many times have you looked at a Facebook friend’s vacation photos from an exotic locale while sitting at your office desk and thought, Why isn’t my life that exciting? These types of comparisons are what can make social media so detrimental to our self-esteem. A recent German study on the effects of Facebook found that one in three people felt worse after browsing their newsfeed. But it’s not just social envy that can harm our confidence. “Lack of attention,” or receiving fewer comments and likes on posts, was another major source of unhappiness.

RELATED: Mental Wellness

It’s Distracting When you’re experiencing an important moment, how much time do you think you spend actually living the moment, versus posting about it? Nearly 25 percent of Americans feel they’ve missed an important event because they were too busy trying to capture it on social media. The distraction that comes as a result of updating your status can be more than just a hassle – it can be dangerous. Experts have discovered that social media on your phone slows your reaction time by 38 percent and that drivers using mobile phones are four times more likely to crash. 

RELATED: Parenting QA: Is My Kid On The Computer Too Long?

Expert Insight Karla Helbert, MS, LPC treats patients with anxiety surrounding social media and says it’s no wonder we’re addicted, because our brain reacts to cell phone alerts the same way it would to drugs or other pleasurable sensations. This desire to stay connected means we’re constantly multi-tasking, and that can trigger the build-up of the stress hormone cortisol, which can dampen our immune system and cause other problems.

So what can you do to curb your online obsession? Well, for one, you can turn off your phone’s push notifications. This puts you in control of when and how you access social media. If you’re feeling anxious about being online, Helbert recommends you try identifying the thoughts behind the anxiety. What are you afraid will or won’t happen if you don’t sign on? Identifying the messages you’re sending yourself is key.

Over time, Helbert encourages you to practice leaving the social media behind in small doses. Try going to the corner store without your phone, or turn it off while you are having dinner. Leave the phone in a designated place when you get home from work and only check it every hour or so for any urgent messages. If the calls or posts aren’t important, don’t respond until the next day. And finally, try to have at least an hour of “no screens” before bedtime.

You Might Also Enjoy:
Relaxation Tips for Anxiety
VIDEO: Depression 101: Tips To Ease Depression
Free-Floating Anxiety: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Katarina Kovacevic is a freelance writer specializing in travel, spa, and beauty and wellness. She's the author of The Food Lovers' Guide to Phoenix & Scottsdale and founder/editor of Style Jaunt, a blog about fashionable travel. Her work has appeared in publications like American Spa, The Knot, Unboudary by USA Today, SheKnows.com and more. Follow her on Twitter @Little_K

Do we have to cool down after exercise? (NYT)

Fruit, Mediterranean diet tied to fewer hot flashes (Reuters)

Diet, exercise together are key to success (USA Today)

Food Poisoning: What you need to know (CNN)

Healing plantar fasciitis (NYT)

Walking minutes help people make healthier menu choices (Medical News Today)

First case of new bird flu found outside China (NPR)

U.S. infant mortality rate declines (Los Angeles Times)

May is Mental Health Month; calls attention to pathways to wellness (WSJ)

Pet senior wellness care requires special attention according to Jacksonville veterinarian (WSJ)

1.     Having a furry (or even a scaly) friend helps lower your heart rate.

Owning a cat, dog, or even a goldfish can help reduce your heart rate, lower blood pressure and reduce stress. There are plenty of medical waiting rooms with fish tanks, and those fish are there for a healthy reason!

 

2.     A four-legged friend is a great excuse to exercise.

Being a dog owner takes a great amount of time and commitment, but the bright side is that they encourage you to get outside and go for a walk. Animals need exercise just like people do. If you have a hard time justifying just going for a walk for your own health, having a dog is a wonderful reason to get out and start moving.

3.     Owning a pet can help fight depression.

Those who suffer from mild forms of depression, loneliness and/or isolation can benefit from the social advantages of meeting other dog owners while walking theirs. Pets also are a great distraction from the daily stress of life that bogs us down. A pet picks you up when you’re feeling down, will love you unconditionally, and will never judge you.

 4.     Animals can affect your hormone levels – in a good way.

There’s a reason why cuddling with a furry cat or dog feels so good. Cuddling releases serotonin, which is a chemical that gives off a “happy” feeling. Also, the levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, are lowered when you pet a companion animal.

5.     Dogs can help take care of you.
There are many cases where dogs have alerted their owners about a fire or an intruder in the house. Some dogs are able to alert owners prior to having seizures and can even detect cancer. Animals have better hearing, vision and sense of smell than humans. Having a pet in your home can save your life!

You might also like these videos:
The Holistic Hound's Tasty Treats
Tanner's Raw Diet 
Natural Companions with Tyson Kilmer 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ami Dobelle has been working professionally with animals for more than 15 years.  She is a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and the International Marine Animal Trainers Association. As an animal and dog trainer in the New York/New Jersey area, Ami has been featured on numerous television shows. She helps clients understand the basics of how and why to train pets, while making it both fun and enjoyable for all involved. Learn more about Ami and her services at www.amianimaltraining.com.

 
VIDEO: Tension Release? Do It Yourself With Self-Massage

SpaEvidence.com, a website that provides access to evidence-based medicine for common spa and wellness treatments, has aggregated research behind more than 30 “modalities” ranging from acupressure to yoga. Under massage, the site has pulled together a range of studies, some of which report positive effects. In some cases, more research is needed to confirm the results but the studies still remain promising. Here’s what you might find while browsing through the archives:

A Sure Bet for Reducing Stress

A game-changer study done by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in 2010 showed that Swedish massage significantly decreased levels of stress hormones cortisol and arginine vasopressin. So while reduced stress, pain and muscle tension can be seen as “shorter term” effects of massage, the chemical changes triggered by this treatment take it to another level.
        

RELATED: Tips for Natural Stress Relief

Some medical databases might claim that more research is needed to prove the positive benefits of massage as a treatment for certain diseases and illnesses. However, studies have already reported encouraging results for the following physical and psychological conditions:

Fibromyalgia: A 2011 study showed a massage-myofascial program can reduce pain sensitivity and anxiety levels in patients with fibromyalgia, while helping improve sleep quality and physical function.

Headaches/Migraines: A study conducted at the University of Auckland (New Zealand) showed that participants had fewer migraines and better sleep quality when undergoing a weekly massage treatment regimen.   

RELATED: Know Your Migraine  

Chemotherapy/Cancer: A report in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine shared the results of a randomized trial conducted at the University of Göteborg (Sweden), which found that massage significantly reduced nausea in women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy.

Dementia: A pilot study showed a 36-minute increase in the length of nighttime sleep for patients suffering from Dementia after they received just three minutes of slow-stroke back massage.

Autism: A 2011 randomized controlled trial of parent- and trainer-delivered Qigong massage for young children with autism showed reduced measures of autism as well as abnormal sensory responses.

While many databases or individual studies will stress (no pun intended) that massage should not replace traditional medical care, many health care providers will suggest massage as an alternative treatment to supplement or combine with other standard medical treatments.

With more studies being conducted every year, the proven track record of massage as a treatment for medical conditions can only be expected to strengthen, and the timing couldn’t be better. As an overall sense of well-being becomes more and more important to generations young and old, routine massage treatments are increasingly looking like the go-to option for time and money well spent.

Source: http://www.spaevidence.com

You Might Also Like:
The Art Of Baby Massage
DIY Scalp Massage

 ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Dulcy Gregory is a freelance writer, based in Aspen, Colorado, with a knack for balancing creativity and organization. She learned everything there is to know about spas, wellbeing and how to live (and travel) well in six years of work for one of the world’s largest spa and wellness media companies, SpaFinder Wellness. Believing in writing as both a personal and professional passion, Dulcy enrolled in and graduated from a Master’s degree program in Creative Writing at the New School in 2012. She is an avid Vinyasa yoga student and considers kale one of the best foods on the planet. Follower Dulcy on her blog, D.A.G.

There’s been a lot of conversation recently about cooking with oil and butter. Among the concerns is fat content. Some fats actually have health benefits but others, like saturated and trans fats, can have negative effects on your body.

What Is Ghee?

Ghee is the liquid that is left over when butter is melted over heat. It is considered pure (or clarified) because there are no preservatives such as milk solids. Ghee is also easy to make. All you need to do is purchase unsalted butter sticks, heat them in a saucepan until boiling, and adjust heat accordingly to maintain a slight ongoing boil.

Skim off the condensed foam that appears on the top and once you hear a frying oil sound (usually about 15 minutes), remove the saucepan from heat. Let it cool and then pour the clarified butter, now ghee, into a glass container. The remaining residue is considered milk solids and can also be used in food preparation.

WATCH: Yogi Cameron's 10 Reasons To Eat Ghee

Why You Should Cook With Ghee

Well, let’s be real here – the flavor of pure saturated fat is likely going to be delicious! Using ghee yields the same results as oil and butter, but with a richer flavor. Ghee may also be a healthier alternative to butter fat, which can sometimes contain pesticide residues from cattle feed. Cooking with ghee requires only half the amount of oil the recipe calls for – a ½ cup of ghee instead of 1 cup of oil, for example.

Benefits of Ghee

Based on Ayurvedic principles, ghee promotes anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities because it contains butyric acid, which is a fatty acid with antiviral and anti-cancer properties that is also believed to be helpful in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.

According to Rudolph Ballentine, author of Transition to Vegetarianism, ghee is also known to enhance the nutritional value of foods because it is made in pure form. On the flip side, ghee is a saturated fat and there are plenty of studies showing an increase in overall cholesterol levels with an increased consumption of saturated fats. As a result, consume ghee in moderation and be cognizant about its use when cooking.

RELATED: What Are The Best Foods To Eat & Avoid For My Dosha?

Cooking with Ghee

Try ghee out for yourself! Make it following the instructions above and then use it in a recipe, like my homemade Indian Keema ground turkey.

Ingredients

• 2 medium-sized yellow onions;
• ½ tablespoonghee;
• salt to taste;
• 1 tray 93% lean ground turkey;
• 1 tablespoon curry powder;
• 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce;
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste;
• 2 tablespoons water

Preparation

1. Chop the onions and sauté in a saucepan with the ghee until browned.
2. Add the ground turkey, salt to taste, curry powder and soy sauce to the onions, and mix and separate the ingredients so that the turkey is as fine as possible.
3. Stir until mixture is blended.
4. Add the tomato paste along with water, and continue to cook everything on medium to low heat, mixing often, for about 10 minutes or until meat is cooked.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Anita Mirchandani, M.S, R.D, C.D.N received a Bachelor of Arts and then a Master of Science in clinical nutrition from New York University, and completed a dietetic internship at New York-Presbyterian hospital in 2011.Sheis now a practicing registered dietitian and recently co-founded FitMapped, a free ‘GPS for fitness’ concept that helps users find fitness easily and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Follow her @FitNutAnita for interesting updates of fitness and nutrition.

Studies have shown that when offices incorporate meditation into their workers' schedules, staff shows major improvements in productivity, efficiency, and general mood.Meditation not only refreshes and rejuvenates the mind, it also relaxes you without making you sleepy.


A short break for meditation may be just the thing you need to get through a stressful, busy workday.


Benefits of Meditation in the Workplace:

•  Enhanced creativity
• More on-the-job efficiency, with less mistakes
• Improved concentration and endurance
• More positive office atmosphere
• Increased interpersonal harmony and cooperation
• Increased productivity

Meditation Tips for the Workplace:

1. Find a quiet spot at work (if possible). Once you’re comfortably seated, draw your attention to your breathing. Notice the air going into your nostrils and out of your mouth. Your stomach should rise as you inhale. Pull your navel in as you exhale.
2. If your mind wanders, try using a simple phrase or mantra to help you focus. Take a long, deep breath and on the exhale, say the word or phrase. Repeat for a minute or two.
3. Close your eyes for a few minutes and meditate on the sounds in your office or outside. Try to listen without judging what you hear.
4. Bring a book of short prayers or meditations to work. Read one passage every day. Meditate on that passage and how it relates to your work.
5. Purchase or download a meditation-friendly screen-saver or desktop image. A few times a day, focus your attention on the image while breathing steadily.
6. A mini Zen sandbox or garden can boost creativity while calming your mind. You can also find meditation kits at bookstores that include items like flameless candles, chimes and chanting tapes.
7. Do a stream-of-consciousness exercise: Call up a blank screen and write whatever comes into your mind. Just get it out. You can then delete the entire page.
8. Do a three-minute desk meditation:

• Set your timer (on your cell phone or computer) for three minutes. 
• Sit comfortably, with your back straight. Your feet should be planted on the floor, not crossed. Rest your hands lightly on your knees with palms facing up. 
• Gently close your eyes and breathe deeply, inhaling through your nose, deep into your lungs, for a count of three. 
• Hold the breath for three counts, then release through your mouth to a count of three. Count to three before inhaling again. 
• Continue the exercise, inhaling for three, holding for three, exhaling for three, and holding the out breath for three seconds.
• When the timer goes off, hold onto the feeling by taking three deep breaths through your nose and out through your mouth. Open your eyes.

• Find a cool and quiet outdoor spot.
• Sit cross-legged with your spine straight and your hands placed palms down on your thighs.
• Concentrate on your setting. Focus your attention on the local sounds, sights and smells. If your mind begins to wander, refocus it on a specific sensation; for example, the sound of the birds or rustling leaves.
• Breathe deeply and steadily.

Q:

Do you have any alcohol detoxifying herbal remedies?

A:

It’s important to remember that the body has an innate ability to detoxify itself regardless of what herbs or other substances are consumed. Simply refraining from eating for a number of hours and consuming some hot water can help the digestive system to process whatever food and alcohol is in the GI tract and then use the break from digesting new food to purge the body of whatever toxicity remains in the blood

As to specific herbs to take, it is inadvisable to refer you to too many specific herbs without knowing more about your constitution and the relative balance or imbalance of your doshas. Were I or anyone else to prescribe something to enhance your body’s ability to burn off toxicity by building your digestive fire while there’s already too much heat in your body, you would only exacerbate related symptoms. Try taking some tulsi with hot water to foster a tridoshic effect in your body overall, but otherwise consult with a practitioner to find out how you may best restore yourself to balance after consuming alcohol. Of course, the best way to truly avoid alcohol-based toxicity is to not even drink it in the first place.

Check Out Our Related Content:

Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: How Do You Decide What To Eat For Dinner?
Healing QA: Are Orgasms Healing?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

'Salt Sugar Fat' by Michael Moss (NYT)

Whole Foods may open health and wellness resort (NY Daily News)

Woman's 150 tea bag per day habit lead to bone disease, her doctors say (CBS News)

Traffic Pollution Can Cause Asthma In Kids  (Medical News Today)

Energy drinks may increase blood pressure, change heart's rhythm (CBS News)

Justin Timberlake Brings it Down to Veganville on SNL (Veria Living)

Pre-packaged foods for toddlers too high in sodium, says study  (CBS News)

Study: Too much salt linked to 2.3 million yearly deaths worldwide (CBS News)

105 US Kids Died From Flu (ABC News)

From petals, blooms, rosewater, syrups and essential oils, we’ve rounded up the rosiest DIY spa and wellness recipes, tasty rose-infused sweets and more!

VIDEO: 6 Medicinal Benefits Of Roses

DIY Spa-Wellness-Romance Recipes
Refreshing Lavender And Rose Bath
Rose Petal Face Pack
Lavender Rose Dryer Sachet
Love Potion Blend
DIY Candlemaking

Aromatherapy in the Kitchen
Fresh Berries With Rosewater Sabayon
Liquid Diet: Cool Rose Juice

RELATED: 7 DIY Spa Recipe Favorites
Peggy K's Oyster Shooters
5 Foods to Boost Your Sex Drive

PLAYLIST: Veria's Valentine's Guide: Sex, Love and Chocolate

And eat more:
• Raw and cooked vegetables (especially leafy green vegetables, like spinach, kale, collard greens, broccoli, bok choy, and chard)
• Fruits
• Whole grains (try to include super-grains like quinoa, buckwheat, and wild rice)
• Legumes (all varieties of beans, lentils, and peas)
• Nuts and seeds (emphasize flaxseeds, hemp seeds, walnuts, and almonds)

RELATED: 3 Ways Juicing Can Help You Lose Weight

2. Exercise at least 5 times per week. Two of my favorite adages are that “you will rust out before you wear out” and “use it or lose it.” Among the infinite advantages of working out regularly include promoting full-body circulation, enhancing detoxification, and stimulating muscle and bone growth. Each exercise opportunity need not be formal and you can mix it up throughout the day. Three 10-minute segments are equivalent to one 30-minute bout. Pick any type of exercise that you enjoy. The only rules are that you mix it up regularly and that you just plain do it…


RELATED:  Top 5 Ways to Fit in Fitness
VIDEO: 3 Beginner Yoga Poses

3. Eat at least 3 servings of carotenoid-rich fruits and vegetables every day to boost skin glow and help protect against acne, scarring, and aging. These include leafy green vegetables, and vegetables and fruits with red/orange/yellow flesh (i.e. carrots, sweet potato, squash, bell peppers, tomatoes, and cantaloupe). One serving equals ½ cup raw or 1 cup cooked.

4. Slough and slather your skin. The skin is your largest organ and its job is to protect your body by keeping foreign invaders out. Keep your skin happy and healthy by improving circulation with regular body brushing and moisturizing. Begin with a large, soft body brush and gently brush your entire body from your toes to your nose with circular and/or long strokes, aimed towards the heart. This removes dead skin and stimulates circulation. Do this before you hit the shower or bath and you will notice a comfortable tingle and rosy glow. Follow your wash with a chemical-free body lotion that can include a few drops of your favorite essential oil (lavender to relax, tea tree oil to boost immunity, or citrus to improve mood).

5.  Eliminate chemicals from your beauty care products.
Choose products that include minimum chemicals, especially: parabens, phthalates, PEG, petroleum, triclosan, fragrances, artificial colors, sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate, sodium methyl sulfate, preservatives, and silicone. There are now multiple brands on the market that are free from these toxic ingredients and, instead, are made with essential oils and other natural products. You can even make your own products using simple household ingredients like:
• Coconut oil and sugar body scrub
• Rosemary oil and almond oil hair conditioner
• Green tea facial toner
• Tea tree oil blemish buster
• Beet juice and olive oil lip stain
• Olive oil with lavender, rose petal, or mint leaf body lotion

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Julieanna Hever, also known as The Plant-Based Dietitian, is the author of the best-selling book, The Complete Idiot’s Guide To Plant-Based Nutrition, and the nutrition columnist for VegNews Magazine. She is the co-author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Gluten-Free Vegan Cooking. Julieanna was recently featured on The Dr. Oz Show, The Steve Harvey Show, Reluctantly Healthy, Issues with Jane Velez-Mitchell, and E! News, co-stars on The Chef and The Dietitian, on numerous radio shows, and has lectured extensively throughout the United States. She co-produced and starred in To Your Health, and counsels a variety of clients worldwide from her Los Angeles-based private practice including elite athletes, adults, and children with various nutritional and/or medical concerns. She taught as part of Dr. T. Colin Campbell’s eCornell Plant-Based Nutrition Certification Program, and worked as a personal trainer and clinical dietitian. Her work as Executive Director of EarthSave, International has provided an opportunity for Julieanna to bring whole food, plant-based nutrition to the forefront of efforts to improve the current global health crisis. Julieanna received her Bachelors degree from UCLA and Masters of Science in Nutrition at CSUN, where she also completed her Dietetic Internship.

1. Drink Water

The most common cause of fatigue is dehydration! If there is not enough fluid in your body, blood volume can drop. As a result, your body (and heart) must work harder in order to supply your cells with oxygen and nutrients. And, if your body is working so hard on the inside, what do you think happens to physical and mental energy levels? Poor hydration results in mental fogginess, poor short-term memory, dizziness and fatigue. Rule of thumb: drink half your body weight in ounces each day. 

RELATED VIDEO: Peggy K Cooks Up Some Energy (Balls) With Yogi Cameron 

2. Eat Greens

One of the key benefits of greens is their rich chlorophyll content.  Chlorophyll increases the number of red blood cells in your body, which help deliver oxygen to your cells. The more oxygen to your cells, the more nutrients will be absorbed and the more energy you will have. Chlorella (a green algae) is the highest concentrated source of chlorophyll on the plant. Sea veggies (such as Nori, kelp and dulse), Sprouts and dark leafy greens (kale, spinach and collards) are all excellent sources of chlorophyll.

3. Up Your Iron with Beans & Legumes

Iron deficiency is a significant cause of fatigue, low energy and anemia, especially in pre-menopausal women. Without enough iron, your body can't produce enough hemoglobin, which is a type of protein in red blood cells that enables them to carry oxygen throughout your body, giving it energy. Pairing plant-based sources of iron with foods rich in vitamin C, such as red peppers, parsley, black currents and strawberries helps to increase iron absorption.

RELATED: Bean Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

4. Go Nuts! As in Almonds

Almonds are an amazing energy boosting food.  Not only are they high in fiber, fat and protein, which stabilize blood sugar levels and provide long-lasting energy, but they are also high in the amino acid tyrosine.  Tyrosine is the precursor to dopamine production—the neurotransmitter responsible for energy, drive, motivation, reward, and pleasure.  It’s what gives us that “get up and go!”  Almonds are also rich in B vitamins which are our energy-boosting and stress-busting vitamins. 

RELATED: Peggy K's Tahini Raisin Cookies & Almond Milk Smoothie For Strong Bones


5. Bring a Banana

This portable, easy-to-eat treat is your energy-boosting companion.  Bananas provide a quick, effective form of fuel due to their rich carbohydrate content.  Bananas (like almonds) are also high in energy boosting B vitamins, but they are also an excellent source of potassium.  Potassium is an important electrolyte that provides cellular energy.  When our body is depleted of potassium, that’s when the onset of fatigue and dehydration kicks in. 

RELATED VIDEO: Reasons to Hydrate Your Body
About the Show "Peggy K's Kitchen Cures"

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Peggy Kotsopoulos is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, Health Educator, and Culinary Consultant focused on teaching REAL health through lifestyle and dietary choices that are easy and delicious.  Originally working in investments in Toronto, Canada, Peggy found her true passion for nutrition and healthy eating by bringing her own guilt-free goodies to corporate meetings as an alternative to bagels and danishes. As colleagues and clients became intrigued, Peggy started leading seminars and founded a company-wide corporate wellness program. Seven years later, Peggy followed her passion to the United States where she became certified as a Health Educator, and graduated from Living Light Culinary Arts Institute in California. She is the founder of beVibrant consulting in Toronto, where she develops wellness programs for large corporate clients, schools, and food establishments. Peggy is the host of Veria Living's show "Peggy K's Kitchen Cures," and has been featured in major publications including Fitness Magazine, Shape and Yahoo! Shine.

1) The first line of defense is to maintain a healthy immune system year-round.  A good start is eating a proper diet  including seasonal vegetables (sweet potatoes, winter squashes, kale, spinach, collard greens and carrots are best in winter), and also beans, nuts, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats.  Try to incorporate red peppers since they are packed with vitamin C.  And eat your mushrooms! They are wonderful immune boosters and good for the respiratory system. 

2) Minimize sugar as best you can.  I recommend total elimination, but as a realist–and especially at this time of year with sweet treats aplenty–we set ourselves up to fail with an all-or-nothing approach. Enjoy what you eat but don’t overdo the bad stuff. 

3) Winter is a great time for staying indoors and indulging in your hobbies, which also helps if you suffer from the winter blues. Enjoy social connections that bring you joy but try not to over-schedule yourself.  Yoga and tai chi are great for bringing the body back to balance, along with meditation which calms the mind.  Keep in mind that excessive, high-impact exercise can sometimes hinder your immune system if you are already exhausted and depleted. Most importantly, when you get sick your body is telling you it needs to be recharged, so honor that and be kind to yourself by resting.

4) Below are some great natural remedies, whether you are sick or you feel something coming on.  As always with any herb or supplement, consult with your doctor first since certain herbs may interact negatively with prescription drugs. Also, when buying herbs make sure they are standardized and buy organic whenever possible.

Andrographis– This Ayurvedic herb has been called the “Indian Echinacea.”  Researchers in Britain have found significant benefits for colds when using andrographis, and people recovered quicker without any side effects. This herb stimulates immune function and can stop viral growth.

Astragalus – This Chinese herb has antiviral and immune boosting properties.  It increases the activity of white blood cells which are responsible for killing viruses.

Yin Chiao - This has been a very highly respected Chinese herbal formula for hundreds of years.  It needs to be taken at the very onset of a cold or flu (within the first two days).  It strengthens the body if taken at the first sign of illness.  It is believed by Chinese herbalists that the germ from a cold or flu will take a few days to really enter the body. Taking Yin Chiao  can provide the body what it needs to heal before the germ progresses any further. 

Echinacea - Echinacea stimulates the immune system and acts as an antibiotic.  It is very effective when you feel a cold coming on. If you are allergic to Ragweed you may have a reaction to Echinacea since it is in the same family. Also, you should not use it if you have an autoimmune disease.

Elderberry - Elderberry is effective for stopping a cold or the flu and will speed up your recovery time. The berries contain compounds that prevent cold and flu viruses from invading and infecting cells. It also offers protection against respiratory viral infections. It can be taken as a syrup as well.

Garlic –Raw garlic has antiviral and immune stimulating properties available.  Chop two cloves a day at the onset and do that until symptoms start to subside. You can add that to salad dressing or clear broth to make it easier to take.　

Ginger – Ginger helps sinus and chest congestion. It’s also great for nausea. You can make a big batch of ginger tea by putting 4 inches of fresh ginger root in 8 cups of water with 3 cloves (clove is very good for colds) and boil for 20 minutes. Strain out the ginger and clove and add some honey or maple syrup – delicious!

Eucalyptus essential oil - A potent antibiotic and antiviral, eucalyptus is excellent for treating colds, flu and sinus infections when used as a steam inhalation.  Boil water, add 2 drops, and breathe in the steam with a towel over your head.

Neti Pot – Viruses can enter through the tiny hairs in your nose, so if you are prone to getting colds in the winter use a neti pot to clean your sinuses regularly.  Using a saline solution mixed with water will help relieve congestion and prevent the virus from entering.

5) Lastly, soups, stews and hot foods are excellent during cold weather because they warm the body.  I invite you to enjoy my own tried-and-true recipe for a tasty, immune-boosting soup!

Maria’s Immune Building Herbal Soup
Serves 8

1 ounce dried astragulus root slices in cheese cloth tied with cooking string in a pouch.  Also put the milk thistle in the same pouch.  This will enable you to remove it easily when the soup is done.
1 ounce milk thistle
¾ inch piece fresh ginger diced finely
¼ cup brown rice
Half a head of organic kale finely chopped
8 cups organic mushroom broth – you can also use vegetable or chicken broth but mushrooms have great immune-boosting properties. You can add more broth later if you feel you want more liquid.
½ cup chopped onion
1 cup of shitake mushrooms – pureed in the food processor
1 cup of maitake mushrooms chopped
1 carrot grated
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil (or extra virgin olive oil)
2 tablespoons light miso
8 cloves garlic
¼ cup fresh parsley
2 tablespoons of Bragg’s liquid aminos

Simmer astragalus, milk thistle, ginger, rice and broth in a big pot for one hour. Sauté the onions, mushrooms and carrots in the oil for about 5 minutes then add to the broth.  Then add the finely chopped kale to the broth and cook for another 30 minutes.  After 30 minutes add the miso, chopped parsley and garlic.  Let stand about 15 minutes before serving.

Related Videos:
Depressed in Winter?  Boost Your Energy.
Best Veggies for Winter
Protect Your Pet from the Cold
   
 
About the Author:   
Maria Tabone has a Master’s Degree in Integrative Health and Healing, and she is a Holistic Health Educator, Healing Foods Chef, Clinical Aromatherapist, Herbalist, Reiki Practitioner, Reflexologist, Teacher and Author.  Maria has a certification in Plant Based Nutrition from Cornell University and has published her first book entitled, "The Holistic Root to Managing Anxiety."  Maria is also currently working towards her PHD in Nutrition and is a member of The American Association of Drugless Practitioners, The American Herbalists Guild, The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy and The Health & Wellness Professionals Network.  Visit her blog, www.theholisticroot.com or email her at maria@theholisticroot.com.  "The Holistic Root to Managing Anxiety" is available at Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble.com.

Q:

Do you believe orgasms are healing?

A:

Orgasms feel very good, and it’s understandable why our whole culture has become obsessed with sex.  When someone ejaculates their essence through orgasm, however, they release the most creatively powerful force their body produces—it is, after all, the force responsible for creating life.  Orgasm might not really be healing, but use of one’s sexual energy can very much be beneficial.  Imagine if you were struggling to stay on top of your workload, and you just couldn’t remain focused and motivated throughout the day.  If you were to harness your sexual energy instead of dispersing it through orgasm, you would likely have much more success focusing your mind and remaining on top of your workload.  You might even have more enriching and stimulating ideas about how to conduct both your professional and personal life.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Can Ayurveda Help with Chronic Fatigue and Insomnia?
Healing QA: 1 Easy Step To Start Healing Naturally
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

1.  Dry Skin Brushing

Using a loofah sponge on your entire body for 5 minutes, brushing towards the heart, twice a week will stimulate your skin’s natural oils allowing the skin to be better protected and moisturized.  You can pick up a loofah sponge at any local drug or health food store.

2. Watch Your Water.

It is imperative to not contribute to the drying by using hot water when bathing and washing your hands.  During the winter months, make sure to utilize lukewarm and as well, stay away from soaps and detergents that contain drying elements such as alcohol.  Use soaps with either glycerin or petroleum.

3.  Lube Up from the Inside Out.

Many people have reported benefits in skin, hair and nail health by using a daily fish oil supplement containing the essential fatty acids, omega 3.  My recommendation is 1,000mg of combined DHA/EPA per day from a high quality natural product manufacturer.  Eating clean cold-water fish such as mackerel, salmon, sardines or herring will do the trick as well!

4. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize.

If you are anything like me, I hit the road literally running in the morning and often forget this simple and obvious tip.  Once you get out of the shower and dry off completely, it is essential to apply organic body butter such as Shea butter to your entire body, especially those areas that will be exposed to the outdoor elements.  This helps replete and restore the body’s lipid layer of moisturizer, which gets degraded in the cold.

5. Invest in a Humidifier.

If the cold winter months suck the moisture out of the air, you can simply put it back.  Humidifiers can be obtained rather easily at your local drug store or super market and are not that costly.  They are amazing for putting moisture back into the air. I suggest running several small units by each bed throughout the hours of sleep, keeping doors closed in rooms where the humidifiers are in use.
 

Watch a Sneak Peak! Myth Defying With Dr. Holly
Dr. Holly, an acclaimed expert in natural medicine  helps viewers break down the myths and misconceptions about health and health  related topics. Premieres January 28th.

For a peppermint twist, try this: Cool Breeze Peppermint Foot Soak 

Carrot top your face with this natural, nutrient-packed  Carrot & Honey Cream Spa Mask

This one is a head of its thyme:  DIY Rosemary Hair Wash: Thicker Hair, Scalp Stimulation 

Forget the toxic, expensive nail-hardener polishes. Get Hard-As-Nails, Naturally

Wake up your whole body. DIY Coffee Scrub: 3 Easy Ingredients, 3 Beauty Perks

Get in a good mood just thinking about it. DIY Spa Recipe: Chocolate Mint Bath

Spend even more time in your bathroom!  At-Home Spa-ing: Lavender Bath Salts

MORE DIY SPA & WELLNESS:

Love yourself from the top down. DIY Scalp Massage
Scrub-a-Dub-Dub: Find your flavor from 3 DIY recipes: Ground Oats Body Scrub, Chocolate Body Scrub and Zesty Tomato Scrub

WATCH: The Pros of Probiotics (video)

In addition to antibiotics there are other factors such as improper diet, toxins and stress that can also destroy the beneficial bacteria.  Since we all have some degree of stress, and eating a healthy diet is a work in progress for many, it is a good idea to supplement with a daily probiotic.  I know many people who are regularly take antacids and prescription pills for acid reflux and indigestion. Including probiotics along with a healthy diet can alleviate those symptoms. 

Many doctors and researchers believe that good health starts in the digestive tract and imbalances can lead to more serious illnesses. Studies show that regular use of probiotics is good for the health of the whole body since they improve immune system function.  When beneficial bacteria in your body is low and you don’t replace it, other serious issues such as urinary tract infections, fatigue, and even irritable bowel syndrome, migraines, Crohn’s disease and skin problems can occur. Taking probiotics simultaneously with antibiotics can also prevent vaginal yeast infections in women.

RELATED: 31 Healthy Breakfast Recipes: Cereals, Smoothies & Egg-Ceptional Options

You can get your probiotics through diet by eating things such as yogurt (make sure it has active cultures or acidophilus) but try to eat plain yogurt since flavored yogurt tends to have a lot of sugar. Other foods include Kefir, natural pickles, sauerkraut, miso, and fermented and unfermented milk. If you need more probiotics than you can get from food, especially if you are taking antibiotics, you can buy a probiotic supplement. Make sure it says, “live and active cultures” and contains lactobacillus and bifidobacterium. Most need to be refrigerated and always check the expiration date.

*The very first thing you should do before considering any new supplement is speak with your doctor about why you feel they may benefit you.

VIDEO: The  Incurables Webisode: Avoiding A Splenectomy With Probiotics

About the Author: 
Maria Tabone has a Master’s Degree in Integrative Health and Healing, and she is a Holistic Health Educator, Healing Foods Chef, Clinical Aromatherapist, Herbalist, Reiki Practitioner, Reflexologist, teacher and author. Maria has a certification in Plant Based Nutrition from Cornell University and has published her first book, "The Holistic Root to Managing Anxiety." Maria is also currently working towards her PHD in Nutrition and is a member of The American Association of Drugless Practitioners, The American Herbalists Guild, The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy and The Health & Wellness Professionals Network. Visit her blog, www.theholisticroot.com or email her at maria@theholisticroot.com.

Q:

What do you use for toothpaste and taking care of your gums and teeth?

A:

The general trend in the West is to wear away the gums and teeth with all sorts of chemicals found in toothpaste. The teeth, gums, and mouth as a whole all need nourishment, and Ayurvedic tradition teaches us that oils nourish the body both on the inside and out.

To take care of my mouth, I gently brush with some licorice powder mixed with some sesame oil. An alternative is to dip the toothbrush into some salt water instead of the oil, which acts as a disinfectant. When done with brushing, I then oil the mouth using a mouthful of sesame oil that I swish around and gargle like mouthwash. This helps to strengthen the gums and relieve the mouth of sores and other maladies.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing QA: How To Start Practicing Ayurveda?
Healing QA: 1 Easy Step To Start Healing Naturally
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!

Q:

I don't like being pushed so many pills by doctors (with side effects like depression and more sickness), but it feels like all the natural alternatives are much more expensive. How can a regular person plan on using natural health to help them live a long life and what kind of healing remedies do you recommend that are affordable?

A:

One of the great misconceptions in the modern, Western world is that we can medicate our way into greater health and a longer life. As your question illustrates, it's likely the medication and all of its associated side effects that's killing us more quickly. Even for those who don't have the resources to consult with practitioners of alternative modalities, the Yogic path offers us a very simple, very accessible method for creating both greater longevity and a higher quality of life overall: the breath.

There are numerous yogis who have recalled how animals that breathe fewer times per minute tend to live longest. A field mouse may only live to be one or two years old, and they breathe several hundred times per minute. In contrast, a giant tortoise lives to be more than 150 years old and yet it only breathes four times per minute. Humans tend to breathe anywhere from twelve to twenty times per minute, and so to create a longer, more peaceful life, slow down your breathing. When you breathe slower and fuller, you will not only create a more sustainable life, but you will respond to adversity with less stress, have less severe negative emotions, and generally enjoy your life on a much higher level.
 

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: How To Start Practicing Ayurveda?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Acupuncture may help with weight loss by stimulating the digestive functions, helping the body clear waste from the body and improving over-all well-being. Studies have shown that acupuncture can aid weight loss by removing some of mental stresses and frustrations that can contribute to over-eating. And by helping remove any built up toxins from the body, and triggering the release of endorphins, it can help improve metabolic processes and digestive function. Acupuncture is an ancient remedy that has the potential to address pain and encourage healing in any part of the body or mind. Be sure that if you choose acupuncture as a way of addressing a weight problem that you are prepared to deal with any deeper underlying energetic or psychological issues
   

The Origins

Acupuncture was developed in China between 2,000 and 4,000 years ago. It is said to be an adaptation of the ancient procedure of removing or draining abscesses with sharp stones and tools. Even though acupuncturists have long known about its benefits regarding weight loss, it’s only been recently that the idea has become mainstream.

How It Works

The main purpose of acupuncture is to heal the energy channels of the body. The Chinese believe that when these channels are blocked, and when energy cannot flow normally, toxins will accumulate that can affect body and mind. The exact mechanism by which acupuncture works is unknown but the insertion of acupuncture needles causes the release of endorphins which have a calming and relaxing effect that makes it easier to deal with stress, frustration and anxiety that can trigger overeating and bingeing on fattening foods.

Remedies

• Weight Loss: A number of studies show that acupuncture can help weight loss. In a meta-analysis of these studies published in 2003 in the International Journal of Obesity, it was suggested that more research is needed as these studies tended to be descriptive in nature and last less than 12 weeks. However, there are numerous anecdotal reports of people who have been helped to lose weight and keep it off by including acupuncture as part of their weight loss program.
• Pain – acupuncture is known for its ability to relieve pain in all areas of the body, including internal areas. Specific points on the skin are connected to particular organs and tissues deep in the body. By putting the needles in these areas, blood flow and energy will be directed to the painful inner area.
• Digestive problems – One of the ways that acupuncture can address weight problems is by promoting digestion. Problems like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which cannot easily be diagnosed by western medicine (there are no tests), have been helped by acupuncture, lessening the symptoms and healing the disease. Acupuncture is believed to tweak the digestive system in ways that make digestion and absorption easier. 
• Depression – A common factor behind weight gain is depression. Some people overeat when they’re feeling sad. Depression is rooted in negative energy, which can be easily addressed through acupuncture. It is sometimes called “spiritual detoxification” because it releases the negative energy from the body. 

Side effects

• Can cause injury – Acupuncture is a highly specialized skill. If the person you see is not a professional and is not careful, he or she may insert the needles in the wrong places, which could cause infection or other health problems. Be sure to get acupuncture therapy only from a licensed professional.
• Contamination – Acupuncture needles can sometimes become contaminated if they are not sterilized properly. Look for a licensed and reputable clinic to avoid this problem.
• Blood pressure drop – some patients experience a sudden drop in blood pressure or a sudden feeling of weakness during an acupuncture session. Although the mechanism is still under investigation, the theory is that acupuncture triggers the release of chemicals in the brain that in turn dampen the response of the cardiovascular system. Hypertension can accompany obesity. An experienced acupuncturist will know how to deal with any blood pressure changes.

Get Answers From Our Healing Q&A Library

Watch Videos on Health & Healing

1. Be moving. Take time out to exercise. Maybe you don’t have time for an hour at the gym every day, but we bet you could find 15 minutes for a short walk around the block, or even some rope-skipping in the warmth of your own house.
2. Be strategic. You know how they say you should never go grocery-shopping hungry? The same applies to holiday parties. The last thing you want is to be satisfying a gnawing hunger with brownies or cheese doodles. Have some high-protein snacks on hand so that your cravings have been taken care of. Then enjoy moderate and guilt-free nibbling.
3. Be sober (mostly). Stick to straight spirits mixed with low-calorie drinks, wines, green teas and fresh fruit juices. And don’t drink and drive. Ever.
4. Be safe. Clean up the house as soon as you finish opening presents. All those small objects, batteries, magnets, small toy parts or packaging pieces are a hazard to toddlers, infants, and pets.
5. Be organized.  Get your lists ready in advance. This will save you time as well as money. (But if you don't get to it this time around, don't kick yourself over it. There’s always next year…)
6. Be grateful. Some of your loved ones may be spending the holidays elsewhere – either because they can’t afford to travel or because they have other obligations. Don’t let hurt feelings take away from your joy of the holidays. It’s great to have too many homes to choose from. And if you’re torn between two families (or even three) consider yourself lucky.
7. Be gentle. The holiday season can be an emotionally sensitive time. You may find ordinarily sane people bursting into laugher one minute and tears the next. Bear this in mind and give extra love, laughter and consideration – not just to others but to yourself too!

What Exactly Do Massage Therapists Do?

Today a more common term is “Massage Therapist." Massage therapy is the scientific manipulation of the soft tissues of the body for the purpose improving their condition. It consists of manual techniques such as applying fixed or movable pressure.  There are many different massage techniques (Thai massage, deep tissue massage, for example).

Job Scope

• Make a client feel relaxed – this is the main job of a massage therapist, to put the client at ease. There are many different massage techniques to achieve this.
• Ensure the type of massage suits the client’s condition – A massage therapist masters a range of specialized massage techniques, each with a different end goal.  Tell your massage therapist about your specific needs in order to get the desired outcome. Let them know of any pre-existing injuries and treatments.
• Knowledgeable about massage equipment – a massage therapist should be an expert in massage oils, lotions, massaging tools, and other massage equipment that t can help achieve the desire outcome. Many clients make specific requests.
• Provides advice– a massage therapist should make suggestions for how a client can take care of him or herself. Things like stretching, breathing techniques, strengthening exercises, yoga, or ways of standing or walking that will help prevent muscle aches and pains.

How a Massage Therapist Can Help You

• Address anxiety and depression – a massage not only relaxes the body, but also the mind. A pleasurable massage will help release negative thoughts.
• Ease muscle stiffness and muscle pain – a massage can help ease the pain and strain of muscle injury or stiffness.
• Treating injuries – other injuries in the joints, for example, can also be treated through massage. The increase in circulation helps to lessen swelling and therefore speeds up healing.
• Strengthen the body’s immunity – by increasing circulation, a massage helps nourish the body’s cells, which increases immunity.
• Help during pregnancy – a massage therapist can help pregnant women strengthen their body in order to avoid miscarriages. A massage therapist can correct the position of the baby in the womb so a woman may be able to have a head first birth, and avoid the need for a C-section.

Choosing the Right Massage Therapist

• Know what type of massage you want and need – different massage therapists will specialize in different techniques. Once you figure out what type of massage you’d prefer, you can go in search of the properly skilled massage therapists.
• Check for accreditation – before going to a spa, check their credentials. Most spas advertise their services on the internet so it will be easy.
• Ask for opinions – if you have friends or relatives who have regular massages, ask their advice.
• Choose a  massage therapist that you are comfortable with -- Choose the massage therapist that you are comfortable with; trust your judgment. A massage is an intimate activity and you don’t want to do it with someone that makes you feel uneasy.
• Check your insurance - If you want to be able to write-off your massage under your medical insurance plan, check with your insurance company before booking the massage. You should whether the care needs to be pre-authorized or pre-approved by a family doctor, whether there is a co-payment, how many visits are covered, whether you will need to see a practitioner in your network, and if so, can they provide you with a list of practitioners in the area. If they allow practitioners not in their network, check whether there are out of pocket expenses. Many insurers cover some form of alternative medicine, however, there may be a co-payment and the amount of visits may be limited.

Spotting an Unqualified Massage Therapist

• Check for credentials – it is very important to check for the massage therapist’s credentials before getting their service. An unqualified massage therapist may cause injuries and muscle sprains. Be sure to ask about their education and their previous work history. Better yet, inquire through satisfied customers.
• Get a massage from a reputable spa – the safest way to be sure that the massage therapist is professional is by getting their service in a spa. Once you are satisfied with the service of a particular  massage therapist, you can ask for their contact details and request future massages at home. Many health spas offer home service.

Massages are a regular part of many people’s lives. They can be an important part of a healthy, active lifestyle.  In order to get the best massage for your needs, make sure you find a well-trained, skilled and friendly massage therapist to trust your body to. If you want to be able to write off massage under your insurance plan, it is best to phone your provider before booking the appointment and find out what they cover

Get Answers From Our Healing Q&A Library

Watch Videos on Health & Healing

.

• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of castor oil
• 1 teaspoon of honey
• 1/2 cup of shelled walnuts

• 1/4 cup dried rosemary
• 1/4 cup dried sage
• 1/4 cup dried peach leaf
• 1/4 cup dried nettle
• 1/4 cup dried burdock

• 2 cups of coarse ground coffee
• 1/2 cup raw sugar
• 3 tablespoon olive oil

Origin of Meditation Music

Meditation music can be traced back to several ancient civilizations. In many indigenous cultures, shamans used mediation music in their worship to their gods or to put their followers in a trance-like state or religious ecstasy. Shamans and healers also use chants and hymns to perform their healing and magic. Christians used meditation music, in the form of praise songs and worship songs, to uplift the spirit. Monks in the holy temple can always be heard singing or chanting soothing hymns that create a peaceful and holy atmosphere in their temples. In medieval times, every celebration and feast was always accompanied with vibrant music and song playing. Meditation music been used in the early days in so many ways and forms that people once believed that music was a form of magic.

How Meditation Music Works

According to studies, music is created using different frequencies, which can influence the brain’s frequency. When an individual listens to music, their brains will try to mimic the frequency of whatever the individual is hearing. Different frequencies or wavelengths have a certain effect on a person’s consciousness. For example, when someone listens to soothing music, the person will also feel more relaxed than when he is listening to loud, sibilant or wild music. Loud and wild music can make the body more alert and attentive as the brain will try to get in synch with the music’s beat.  Meditation music helps an individual focus and become relaxed and mellow.

Meditation Music Benefits

• It lowers Stress – Listening to meditation music can lower the stress levels of individuals who are anxious and tense from overworking. A study has shown that people working in an area where relaxing music or meditation music is regularly played experienced lower levels of stress than in places where there is no music or louder music playing.
• It lowers Heart Rate – Listening meditation music can help in lowering a person’s heart rate. In a 2009 study published in the journal Circulation found that changes in the cardiovascular and respiratory systems mirrored musical tempo. Meditation or other relaxing music can slow the heart and calm it down. Meditation music can also help soothe a baby and induce sleep so that the parents can rest or do other things.
• Inexpensive – Meditation music is a form of treatment, which improves people without hurting their wallets. Mediation music can be purchased inexpensively at music and department stores or downloaded from the Internet—often for free. Public libraries have CDs suitable for meditation. These can be borrowed for free. A single CD can be used over and over. Many already own music that would be suitable for meditating.

Meditation Music Remedies

• Insomnia – Meditation music has been proven to be a great for people with insomnia. By helping the body and mind relax, it can help with falling asleep and staying in a deep sleep. 
• Tinnitus – People with tinnitus will find it very hard to meditate because of the constant ringing in the ears. Some studies show that listening to meditation music can help in easing the condition. Tinnitus often seems to get louder when a person is not listening to anything. Listening to something soothing and calming seems quiet the ringing. 
• Anxiety – People who are anxious can be treated with meditation music. It produces a calming effect on the body, and the mind. By listening to soft, soothing music, people with anxiety can relax. This, in turn, alleviates the symptoms of anxiety. According to a meta-study published in 2011 in the Cochrane Library which analyzed the results of 30 other studies, persons who worked with music therapists or simply listened to music on their ipods or stereo had lower levels of anxiety and high overall satisfaction with life.
• Muscle aches – Medication music is not only good for the mind and soul. It is also for the physical body. Listening to meditation music can help relax the body. Meditation music is often used in combination with such muscle treatments as physiotherapy, chiropractic and acupuncture treatments.

Meditation Music Side Effects

Listening to meditation music has no proven negative side effects. When choosing a CD, pick something at least 45 minutes long. Music with flutes or bells can be relaxing or world music too. Listening to meditation music too loudly may stimulate body and mind rather than relax you.

Conclusion

The power of music to soothe body and mind is a discovery long known to man, and integral to several ancient civilizations. Meditation music is simply forms of music designed to calm the mind and body. It is used in the treatment of several physical and psychological problems. Many complimentary treatments such as acupuncture, chiropractic and physiotherapy use meditation music to set the mood and help increase its efficacy.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Meditative Properties of Music
Mindfulness Meditation: Nataraja, the Ancient Dance Meditation

Q:

What can I do for sleep apnea?

A:

Ayurveda instructs individuals to identify the root cause of a disease before addressing it through different therapies and remedies, as it is important to shape the regimen around resolving whatever issues lie beneath the symptoms. It is particularly important to keep this in mind when responding to sleep apnea, for this particular condition can be caused by a variety of different factors. While of course being overweight is a common influence over such a disease, there are other considerations as well. An Ayurvedic practitioner will work with a sleep apnea sufferer to determine what imbalances they may be experiencing in their doshas. If they suffer from sleep apnea and are also particularly overweight, then they likely have excessive amounts of Kapha energy in their system and will then need to go on a Kapha-reducing diet as well as make other lifestyle changes.

However, it is always beneficial to train oneself to use the full breath during the day, and breathing properly and building the efficiency of the respiratory system as a whole during daylight hours will also have a positive impact on the system’s capacity to operate at night. To practice the full breath, find a quiet place to sit in the morning and sit upright either on a cushion on the floor or on the edge of a chair. Inhale through the nose for a few counts, and then exhale through the nose for twice as many counts. Allow the abdomen to expand as you inhale, and allow it to contract as you exhale. Be sure not to force it. Practice this for at least five minutes each morning. And you can also visit The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) for more information on finding a trained Ayurvedic practitioner.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: What Time Do You Wake Up And Go To Sleep Every Day?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

Trying to find alternative and natural ways to heal seems to require a positive attitude and a great deal of motivation, but my ongoing health issues deflates my motiviation and positive outlook. Do you have any suggestions for combating this?

A:

One of the things that seems so daunting to so many of the clients I’ve worked with over the years has been how many different ways I suggest they alter their lifestyle and how overwhelming such a huge shift can be. Eat this, don’t eat that. Sleep now, not then. Take this herb and undergo that treatment. One thing, and another, and another. There have been many times that I’ve camped out in my client’s home for days on end just to keep them focused and ground them in this shift enough so that they can sustain the changes once I’m gone. But without someone there to sleep on your floor, making the types of changes I teach people to make can very much challenge you to remain motivated and positive.

This is why I suggest that you start small and grow your lifestyle shift gradually. Start with drinking hot water first thing in the morning for a week, and then start increasing the amount of time you last eat before going to bed over the course of several weeks or a month. Then, gradually eliminate packaged foods, then frozen foods, then leftovers. One week after another, you can set a different goal for yourself. In a few months’ time, you’ll be leading a completely different life.

Also, I have a book coming out this January called The ONE Plan, which outlines an entire yearlong program of incremental change. You may benefit from utilizing this or another program’s structure to remain motivated and stay on your path to wellness and peace.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Do I Have To Completely Change My Lifestyle To Follow Ayurveda?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

Is there anything that can be done to heal cataracts naturally?

A:

Ayurveda provides us with a number of different therapies that are useful in helping to resolve cataracts that usually involve a combination of different herbs, ghee, milk, sesame oil, honey, and other substances. What is particularly significant about cataracts, though, is that the nature of the symptoms (the color of the pupils, the texture and color of the patches, etc.) wind up playing a particularly significant role in how the issue is addressed. And, believe it or not, there are Ayurvedic forms of surgery that are indicated for many of these forms of the disease.

To look into where you may find an Ayurvedic practitioner to help you to resolve your cataracts in a systematic and informed way, visit The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Natural Treatments For Diabetes?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

My adult son has very bad hicups. He gets them at least three times a week, and they last for hours at a time. What can he do to stop them?

A:

Ayurvedic tradition teaches us that there are a variety of different causes of hiccups as well as different levels of severity. Sometimes, hiccups are more severe in the actual disruption of the breath and can lead to significantly uncomfortable symptoms such as fever and vomiting. These more severe cases must of course be monitored and addressed by a trained Ayurvedic practitioner who can recommend specific herbal interventions as well as other more involved therapies such as oil massages and use of steam tents. If your son’s situation is defined less by the severity of the hiccups themselves and more by their frequency and consistency, then he may simply benefit from a lifestyle that grounds the aggravation of the air element (the excessive movement that results from the disrupted breathing). He may benefit from making white basmati rice and ghee a staple of his meals.

Additionally, he will benefit from developing a full breath practice. Each morning, he can sit in silence and breathe the full breath by inhaling through the nose for a few counts, and then exhaling through the nose for twice as long. Have him sit upright on either a cushion on the floor or at the edge of a chair and do this for at least five minutes a day, as this will help him to settle the air element in his body and center himself on the whole. Be sure to remind him to allow the abdomen to expand as he inhales and contract as he exhales—but to not force it.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: What Can I Do For Asthma?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

What can I do for an enlarged prostrate?

A:

An enlarged prostate, like many conditions diagnosed through Ayurvedic methods, is treated as based on the specifics of the patient’s imbalances. One man may have an enlarged prostate and experience low back pain, constipation, and a general lack of energy: He suffers from imbalances related to dryness and the Vata dosha. Another man may experience fevers and infections: He suffers from imbalances related to excessive heat and the Pitta dosha. Still another man might experience a buildup of excess phlegm in his body: He suffers from imbalances related to excessive moisture and the Kapha dosha. Since the different imbalances come from different causes, each man is responsible for treating his swollen prostate individually.

This is why it’s ideal for the condition to be addressed by a trained Ayurvedic practitioner, who can recommend an appropriate herbal regimen and make other lifestyle recommendations as well. However, if you find that you experience particularly intense imbalances in one of the doshas, then you will likely benefit from making lifestyle changes accordingly (avoid dry foods and favor natural oils on the skin and in the food for Vata, avoid spicy foods, meats, alcohol, and rigorous physical activity for Pitta, and avoid dairy and sugar as well as favor more physical activity for Kapha). To learn more about Ayurvedic practitioners, you can go to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: What Do You Recommend For Yeast Infections?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

Where do you suggest people study to become a a certified Ayurvedic Practitioner?

A:

I typically send people to the place I studied in Coimbatore, India known as Arsha Yoga Vidya Peetam Trust.  Here they will work with you to provide a curriculum that will help you to accomplish your goals.  Otherwise, there are schools and centers throughout the United States that may be of value as well, though I can’t specifically speak to the nature or legitimacy of those programs.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Can Ayurveda Improve My Thyroid Function?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

John Revo Puno

One way to get inspired in living a healthier lifestyle is to follow some of the healthier habits our folks used. How did they maintain their beauty and healthy physical appearance? Something like acne was often treated much more naturally, without the chemicals that are often used today like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Try out these natural remedies for acne, and you’ll not only save some money on expensive products, but you’ll hopefully find like I have, that there are effective ways to treat acne that are non-toxic.

1. Brown Sugar Scrub. Brown sugar is one of the things that initially inspired me to stop using more toxic acne products and go for the more natural items instead. Here’s how to do it. First, take a hot shower and once your pores have opened up, start scrubbing the affected areas with brown sugar. This will help eliminate dead skin cells, dirt and oil that are clogging your pores and will leave your skin soft. You will notice a change in your acne the next day – and your skin will be silky smooth. This scrub should not be used on a daily basis because it dramatically opens up the pores and overusing may cause an overproduction of oil that could worsen your acne. I recommend that you use this brown sugar scrub 2 to 3 times a month only.
2. Egg White Facial. You might have heard of or at least tried this before. The purpose of the egg white facial is to remove excess oil from the skin. You will need 1 or 2 eggs to do this. First, crack the eggs and separate the whites from the yolk, put the whites in a bowl and beat them gently until consistent. Next, simply spread the egg whites all over your face and allow 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing.
3. Honey Blemish Killer. Many scrubs and facials use honey because of its antibacterial property. For individual blemishes, place a dab of honey directly on it and cover with a band aid to keep it in place. It will remove the blemish or make it significantly smaller OVERNIGHT! To get a clearer complexion, use honey as a facial mask. Spread it on your face and leave on for an hour. You’ll see great results the following day.
4. Egg Yolk Mask. Just like egg whites, egg yolks help battle acne as well. In addition, egg yolks are loaded with Vitamin A, which contains retinoids and one of them is Retin-A. Retin-A is used in many beauty products because it helps regulate the production of skin cells which in turn prevents pores from clogging. 13-cis-retinol can also be found in Vitamin A. This helps in regulating the production of oil and bacteria. To make an egg yolk mask, you will need 1 to 2 eggs. Separate the yolks from the whites, mix in a bowl, then apply evenly all over your face. In just few minutes, the yolk will harden. Let it sit for another 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse it off.
5. Lemon Juice Toner. The level of acid found in lemon juice is quite high so you don’t want to leave it on your face for very long. To use a toner, juice a fresh lemon into a cup or bowl, then apply to your face with a cotton ball for 15 minutes, then wash it off. This short duration is all that’s needed for the lemon juice to clean off the excess oil, dirt and dead skin on your face. Don’t use this treatment too often though -- because it’s so strong overusing it can cause your skin to become very sensitive. It’s best to use for severe acne, only when needed.

Hopefully these tips will help you fight off acne naturally. They will also help you save money from buying expensive acne treatments. Go ahead and give it a try and let  me know how you fare!

About The Author


John Revo Puno is the owner of FruitLush.com, a website/blog dedicated to living a healthy life through healthy diet, proper nutrition and eating healthy foods. He contributes regularly to a number of blogs and websites advocating for a healthy life and community wellness.

Related Content
Healing Q&A: What Can Help Beat Acne?
Video: Treat Acne With Aromatherapy
DIY: Relaxing Acne Mask

Q:

What foods can boost my energy level?

A:

Believe it or not, the best food you can eat to boost your energy level is the non-food kind. Really, one of the biggest causes of low energy in our culture is the large and frequent meals we put into our bodies. When we eat more than what we need, we give our digestive system extra work to do. Since the bodily resources needed to digest extra food needs to come from somewhere, the digestive system borrows those resources from other systems of the body like the immune system and the circulatory system. With fewer resources to sustain our body’s homeostasis, low energy as well as other symptoms are the result. I therefore often recommend to my clients that they eat smaller meals less frequently to get their energy level up.

With that said, it is helpful to maintain a vegetarian diet of fruits and vegetables bought from the local farmer’s market, ghee, natural oils like olive and sesame oil, white basmati rice, legumes, and natural sweeteners like maple syrup and honey. If you stick to the natural food groups, you will see your energy skyrocket. Your need to eat a lot will go away, too.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: What Are The Best Foods To Eat & Avoid For My Dosha?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

Is there a treatment/cure for Lichen Schlerosis? I hate using strong steroids to only just manage it and can't take estrogen as breast cancer is in my family. Help!

A:

Lichen sclerosus is one of those diseases that Western medical practitioners often label as incurable. No matter how many creams, ointments, and—as you mention—steroids are used, the disorder as well as the pain associated with it continues.

The good news is that this is a condition that can be carefully and precisely addressed through Ayurvedic intervention. The nature of Ayurveda calls on us to identify the root cause of a disease, the nature of the imbalances it causes in the body, and other considerations specific to the individual with the affliction. With the right combination of herbal remedies, treatments including herbalized oil enemas, and proper dietary changes, the pain and discomfort associated with the symptoms of Lichen Sclerosus can be greatly reduced.

The bad news is that your condition is a result of your individual body’s needs and therefore neither me nor anyone else can recommend a regimen that addresses the disease at its root without direct observation of your body and symptoms. I therefore recommend you consult with a trained practitioner who can guide you through the process of addressing the disease with Ayurvedic therapies. However, I can tell you that eating a vegetarian diet, refraining from eating the last four to five hours before you go to bed, refraining from consuming alcohol and coffee, practicing gentle yoga postures, and starting each morning with a cup of warm water will get you well on your way to finding greater balance in your body as a whole. Visit the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine to learn more about finding an Ayurvedic practitioner who can help you with this disease.

Check Out Our Related Content:

Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Tips For Healing Candidiasis?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

What do you recommend for weaning off pain medications?

A:

When considered Ayurvedically, pain is a form of toxicity that is the result of faulty digestion. When the body’s digestive system is out of balance from a poor diet, poor sleep habits, and other problematic lifestyle choices, toxins begin to seep into the various crevices of one’s anatomy and wreak havoc. The nature of intervening with pain as a departure from Western pain medication depends on whether the pain is sharp and shooting as is the case with Vata imbalances, hot and inflamed as is the case with Pitta imbalances, or dull and heavy as is the case with Kapha imbalances. The different types of pain require different therapies, and it is ideal to address them under the guidance of a trained Ayurvedic practitioner.

However, pain in the body can generally be resolved by reducing the aforementioned toxicity in the body by balancing the digestion and eliminating as many toxins from the system as possible. This can happen by following a vegetarian diet, eating natural foods in small amounts, refraining from eating the last four or five hours before going to bed (pain and stiffness in the morning is greatly increased by late-night eating), refraining from consuming alcohol and coffee, and waking up with the sun and going to bed by 10pm every night. It is also of course helpful to practice gentle yoga postures on a daily basis so as to increase stability and strength in the joints.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Tips For Arthritis Pain Relief?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

How do I relieve ankle and knee pain caused by arthritis?

A:

The nature of the therapies and treatments you employ for your arthritis will depend entirely on the nature of the arthritis you have.

If you experience the brittle dryness of osteoarthritis, you likely have an imbalance of the Vata dosha. This imbalance is concerned with issues related to movement and elimination. A lack of moisture and lubrication in the body will lead to a decreased nourishment of the cartilage and dry, painful joints are the result. Along with proper therapies as administered by a trained Ayurvedic practitioner, a sufferer of osteoarthritis can also favor cooked foods over raw foods, prepare foods with oils such as sesame oil and olive oil, avoid animal products such as pork and red meat, massage the whole body—but the affected joints in particular—with warm sesame oil, and add ghee to all cooked foods (1 or 2 tablespoons) as this is a great source of lubrication to the bones.

If you experience the inflamed, irritated heat of rheumatoid arthritis, you likely have an imbalance of the Pitta dosha. This imbalance is concerned with issues related to digestive fire and heat. With too much heat being produced by the body’s digestion, it is likely for this heat to spread out into the rest of the body and cause inflammation as happens with rheumatoid arthritis. This condition is also best treated by a trained practitioner, and can be supplemented by eating cooling foods like white basmati rice, cow’s milk, ghee, and sweet fruits, reducing the amount of physically rigorous activity in any given day, eating smaller quantities of food, and eliminating the intake of spicy foods, sour foods, meats and other animal proteins, and alcohol.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Healing QA: Help For Chronic Back Pain?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

My daughter has been losing the pigmentation on her hands over the last several months. We have looked it up online and discovered that it is called Vitiligo. She is 21. Is there a cure and what is the cause? Your help is greatly appreciated. 

A:

Vitiligo is referred to as shvitra in the Ayurvedic texts, and like all diseases is related to imbalances in the digestion as well as aggravation of one, two, or even all three of the doshas defined by the patient’s relative health. And, also like all diseases, the cause is indicative of the specific issues, lifestyle choices, and physical constitution the patient was born with. Your daughter will benefit from having her condition examined by a trained Ayurvedic practitioner so that he/she may determine whether the patches of pigment loss are indicative of the dryness associated with aggravated Vata, the burning, reddish qualities associated with aggravated Pitta, or the white, itchy qualities associated with aggravated Kapha. When the doshic nature of the imbalance is determined, she will be able to modify her lifestyle accordingly and hopefully reverse the symptoms.

Therapies used to reverse shvitra include inducing elimination to purge the body of waste matter, taking herbs like turmeric, amalaki, and neem with cane sugar, and topical applications of indicated herbs. But again, the specific regimen that your daughter will benefit from is best determined by a practitioner who is able to address her specific imbalances through direct interaction. To learn more about Ayurvedic practitioners, you can go to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: What are doshas?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

What do you recommend for help with acne?

A:

Given its relationship to inflammation and excess heat in the skin, Ayurveda primarily associates the incidence of acne with an aggravation of the Pitta dosha. Pitta energy is used to sustain the digestive fire in the stomach, and when this energy is aggravated through poor digestion and excessive heat in the body, eruptions in the skin can occur. These are toxins which have not been burned off by the digestive fire and have found their way into the blood and skin. Digestion is responsible for the breakdown of food into waste and nutrients, and when this doesn’t happen efficiently, toxic matter forms and circulates throughout the body. Digestion may be hindered by consuming dense foods of low water content like red meat and other animal products, spicy foods, and elimination problems like constipation. Acne is also caused by excessive heat born from too much worry, stress, sex, and masturbation.

As the incidence of acne is based on the buildup of heat, many of the therapeutic processes utilized by Ayurveda are based on cooling off the body and stabilizing the digestive fire in the stomach. This can be done with a Pitta-reducing diet, cooling herbal remedies, yoga and breathing practices that can help to cool the body, and other therapies that settle the inflammation in the skin. Some lifestyle changes to reduce acne are as follows:

• Avoid eating too many difficult-to-digest foods, such as red meat, pork, chicken, spicy foods, and egg yolks.
• Avoid sour and pungent foods such as yogurt, pickles, garlic, onions, and tomatoes.
• Avoid drinking alcohol.
• Wash your face daily with a natural soap made from vegetables.
• Apply a combination of turmeric and sandalwood paste to the acne on the face, and rinse off when the paste    has dried.
• Keep your hands away from your face or affected area.
• Avoid too much running as the heat will rise and disturb the skin.
• Apply a very light amount of coconut oil to moisturize the face: rub five drops into the hands and apply all over. This has cooling effect and tones the skin.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Healing QA: Hot Itchy Red Spots Connected To Adult Onset Acne?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

Can you recomend anything for ulcerative colitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis? 

A:

The serious and intense nature of these diseases of course require the type of attention and care that comes from a trained Ayurvedic practitioner who can not only determine the root cause of your illness but also prescribe a regimen that is appropriate for your constitution and individual condition. To learn more about Ayurvedic practitioners, you can go to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

However, when we consider the inflammation of various parts of the body, be it the colon, the liver, or another form of tissue, we are often concerned with the relative balance or imbalance of the Pitta dosha. Pitta energy is responsible for regulating the metabolism of substances that come into the body in the form of food and beverage. This metabolic process is derived from heat in the digestive system, which we call the digestive fire. When the fire remains in balance, the body is an efficient machine for processing food and purging the body of toxins. When the fire becomes excessive from too much rigorous activity, too many heat-producing foods (meat, spicy foods, sour foods, pungent foods), and other imbalanced behaviors, the heat leads to toxicity in the form of irritation and inflammation. When this imbalance becomes particularly intense, more severe conditions like ulcerative colitis are the result.

Again, it’s important that you address this condition under the guise of a trained practitioner, but simple things you can do to reduce heat in your body thereby lessening the severity of flare-ups and other symptoms include:

• Follow a bland diet with foods that are easy to digest such as cooked vegetables, white basmati rice, and  ghee.
• Take a tablespoon of aloe vera gel 2 to 3 times a day.
• Avoid eating spicy, hot, sour, and greasy foods.
• Avoid using too many hot spices and other foods that aggravate inflammation such as garlic, hot peppers, onions, pickles, bananas, vinegar, and salt.
• Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol or coffee.
• Avoid overexertion in physical activities such as exercise and manual labor.
• Avoid frequent and excessive amounts of eating.
• Avoid eating fewer than four or five hours before going to bed.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
The Incurables Webisode: Beating Ulcerative Colitis
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

Are there any natural treatments for diabetes?

A:

Ayurveda views diabetes as a dysfunction of the urinary system, and cites twenty different types of diabetes as determined by the quality of the patient’s urine. Each of the three doshas of Kapha, Pitta, and Vata are associated with their own respective portions of these twenty types of disease, and the severity and prognosis of the patient’s affliction is related to whichever of the three doshas defines the basic nature of their imbalance. The different types of diabetes are similar in their treatment but distinguished in their severity and their root cause in the body.

Given its serious and often incurable nature, diabetes is a disease best treated and managed under the guidance of a trained Ayurvedic practitioner. Those who have continuous and productive contact with such a person can utilize the proper tools to at least control and sometimes resolve the disease, but utilizing the tools that follow without proper guidance can at best reduce the severity of related symptoms.To learn more about Ayurvedic practitioners, you can go to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

With that said, and regardless of the resources available, it is Ayurveda’s goal to either use elimination therapies like purgation or nourishing therapies like with medicated oils and ghees—depending on the relative strength or weakness of the patient being treated. Ayurveda also manages this disease through different treatments, proper diet, herbal therapy, and exercise. Some basic therapies that can be used include:

• Regulate pancreatic function in earlier stages of diabetes with 3 grams of turmeric to every 0.1 ounce of aloe vera gel. Take this concoction daily.
• Take baths with dry ginger, cardamom, and sandalwood infused with the bathwater.
• Eat bitter gourd or take bitter gourd juice on a daily basis.
• Eliminate sweet and sugary foods from the diet including sugar, wheat, rice, potatoes, and particularly sweet fruits.
• Take a decoction of roasted barley and triphala before going to bed. The barley needs to first be soaked in the triphala.
• Engage in vigorous but not excessive exercise on a daily basis, unless the body is lean and weak.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
VIDEO: Diabetes and Sugar Intake
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

What are some natural foods that can help with low white blood cells?

A:

To intervene Ayurvedically in response to leukopenia, you will most likely need a very precise herbal regimen as prescribed to you by a trained Ayurvedic practitioner. After investigating the specific nature of your constitution, the cause of your imbalances in the body, as well as other indications, he/she will be able to determine the most effective way to increase your white blood cell count and improve your immune function overall. To learn more about Ayurvedic practitioners, you can go to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

With that said, you will do well to consider having a simple vegetarian diet of cooked vegetables and grains along with natural oils like olive, sesame, and almond oil as well as ghee. Eating meats and other heavy foods greatly taxes your body’s digestive system, and the more resources your body has to commit to digesting food the fewer resources it has for the body’s other systems—like the immune system. Beyond a simplification of diet, consult with a trained practitioner to determine the specific cause of your disease and then take the necessary steps to restore your body to balance.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: What Are The Best Foods To Eat & Avoid For My Dosha?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

My grandma (whom I live with) has Canadice and is always thinking I do to! When I was like five I was on a gluten free diet but I got off of it! My stomach always hurts and want to stop eating gluten, I just don't know what is wrong and right to eat and do with the hard diet! I need some tips on what to do!

A:

If you are referring to candidiasis, the specific nature of your symptoms are a strong indicator of what type of infection you have. If you suffer from issues related to Vata imbalances, such as insomnia, dry skin, gas, constipation, and a fluctuation in energy levels, then you will benefit from Vata-balancing herbs. The same is true if you suffer from Pitta-related issues (fever, hyperacidity, and burning sensations) and Kapha-related ones (phlegm and other forms of congestion, a sense of heaviness, and excessive amounts of sleeping). The most effective treatment in response to any of these imbalances will be to take a consistent herbal regimen as prescribed by a trained Ayurvedic practitioner. To learn more about Ayurvedic practitioners, you can go to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Without that sort of guidance, you will generally do well to avoid refined sugars, refined flour, sweet fruits like apples, pears, melons, and dark grapes, and cold drinks.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Fall & Winter Diet Tips?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

What do you recommend for helping with hot flashes? And does it have anything to do with a dosha imbalance? (I believe I'm Pitta.)?

A:

Given how menopause is not a disease to be prevented but a biological inevitability, Ayurveda places emphasis on identifying the nature of the symptoms and treating them accordingly.  In other words, a practitioner will determine if symptoms are caused more by the dry and frenetic nature of Vata imbalances (insomnia, vaginal dryness, depression, anxiety), the fiery nature of Pitta imbalances (hot flashes, irritability), or the heavy nature of Kapha imbalances (fatigue, lethargy, water retention, weight gain, obesity).  Once the most dominant symptoms are identified, the patient then works to resolve the imbalances of the related doshas.  A patient may have more than one doshic imbalance, and therefore the lifestyle changes must change to accommodate multiple types of symptoms.

Since you experience hot flashes as a dominant symptom of menopause, then your speculation on having a lot of Pitta energy in your constitution sounds on-target.  It is, of course, ideal for you to consult with a trained Ayurvedic practitioner before implementing any sort of intense herbal regimen, but you will very likely benefit from generally cooling your body off and allowing your digestive fire to settle down a bit.  To do this, do some or all of the following things:

• Create a regular sleep routine, and go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.  This will help to regulate bodily systems.
• Similarly, create a regular eating routine, as this will likewise help to regulate the body.
• Avoid eating at least 4 to 5 hours before going to bed, as leaving undigested food in the stomach may irritate the stomach and exacerbate symptoms.
• Favor a simple, easy-to-digest diet of vegetables, fruits, and grains so as to promote regularity in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Avoid heavy foods at night, which will create more stress on the digestive fire.
• Avoid a lot of rapid movement and aggressive exercise.
• Avoid the hot sun and letting it shine directly on the head and body.
• Massage the body with ghee on a daily basis (you can add ghee to some scentless cream).
• Avoid too many sour, salty, and pungent foods.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Can Sex Fit Into An Ayurvedic Practice?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

I am a 51 years old female. I have psoriasis on my feet and hands which keeps on receding and aggravating at times. Can you suggest an adequate remedy other than steroids?

A:

According to Ayurveda, psoriasis is an indication that the body is producing a lot of toxins from imbalanced digestion. With psoriasis, this digestive imbalance usually takes place because of there being too much heat in the body and this heat manifests in the form of toxicity of the skin. Without more balanced digestion, the body isn’t able to absorb that toxicity and the scaly patches erupt as a result.

The remedy is therefore to reduce the heat in the body, balance digestion, and allow the body to rid the skin of its toxicity. This can happen by avoiding spicy foods, avoiding sour foods like yogurt and pickles, avoiding pungent foods like onions and garlic, avoiding alcohol and coffee, reducing the amount of high-impact physical activity you take on (favor gentle yoga postures instead), and even reducing the amount of sexual release you have in any given week—for sex creates a lot of heat in the body. You can also explore various topical remedies, though these have less of an impact than shifting your lifestyle as a whole through diet and activity. One remedy is to mix the gel from an aloe plant with coconut oil and apply that topically to the patches of skin. This will help cool the skin off.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Do I Have To Completely Change My Lifestye To Follow Ayurveda?
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

What changes should I make in my diet for diverticulitis? And what do I do if I am allergic to most fruits, nuts & seeds? Also, I am over 20 pounds overweight, and still have to cook a different meal for my husband, a picky eater, whose weight is fine. It's all starting to feel overwhelmming -- so would be happy to hear any suggestions that can help me find a new balance.

A:

In Ayurveda, it’s particularly important to establish the root cause of a disease in the body before providing any sort of medical regimen to resolve it. With a condition like diverticulitis, there is the possibility that the symptoms are based on imbalances in the colon—the seat of Vata energy—or in relation to the inflammatory nature of the condition—related to the excessive heat of Pitta energy. Of course, what is most likely is that your condition is a combination of imbalances in both.

What this means is that you will of course benefit the most from consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner to determine what imbalances in your body are causing this condition and then act accordingly in response. However, you will most likely benefit from giving your colon a rest through a very simple diet of steamed vegetables, overcooked basmati rice (made with more water than is typically instructed, perhaps 3 cups of water for 1 cup of rice), and ghee. These foods will be simple to digest and provide nourishment so that your colon may restore itself to proper functioning condition. Consider at least making this your dinner each night, and eat it no fewer than four or five hours before you go to bed.

And though it may be difficult to prepare different food for yourself and your husband, it’s ultimately best for you to make sure you take in what your body needs regardless of outside circumstances.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
A Model Guru Healing Recipe Guide
Healing QA: Do I Have To Completely Change My Lifestye To Follow Ayurveda?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

What do you recommend to dissolve a gallbladder stone?

A:

Ayurveda considers gallbladder function and its basis in the digestive process to primarily be related to activity of the Pitta dosha. When we consider Pitta energy in the body, we’re concerned with the relative strength or imbalance of the digestive fire in the stomach and associated organs. People who have too much fire in their digestive system often do so on account of their constitution, their consumption of animal proteins, their consumption of too many spicy, sour, or pungent foods—or too much food in general—their consumption of too much coffee and alcohol, as well as their participation in excessive amounts of physical activity and sex. People who have excessive fire in their body typically experience breakouts on their skin, indigestion or other acidic digestive distress, profuse sweating, and other indications of heat.

You may experience this type of digestive imbalance, or your stones may be indicative of a different type of bodily imbalance. If the above scenario describes your own situation, then you will of course benefit from lessening the heat in your system through a vegetarian diet, an avoidance of coffee and alcohol, and practicing more calming activities like soothing yoga postures instead of vigorous workout regimens. However, a precise diagnosis of and prescription for lessening the symptoms of your stones will best be aided by a targeted herbal regimen as prescribed to you by a trained Ayurvedic practitioner. To learn more about Ayurvedic practitioners, you can go to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: How To Get Off High Blood Pressure Medications?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

1. Why did you leave a great career as a supermodel to start practicing ayurveda?
2. Is working with famous clients different than working with your other clients?
3. What is your daily ayurvedic routine like?
4. Do you eat Chinese or Italian food? And what do you usually eat for dinner?
5. Why is ghee one of the three things you can't live without?
6. What time do you wake up and go to sleep every day?
7. What do you use for deodorant?
8. What are your favorite places in the world?
9. If you had to choose between eating at McDonald’s, PizzaHut or KFC, which place would you go?
10. How do you keep your home green?
11. Do you think it's important to try and make a smaller carbon footprint?
12. How do you avoid catching a cold or getting sick from air travel?

Check Out Our Related Content:
A Model Guru Webisodes: DIY Healing & Yoga Videos
Yogi Cam's Healing Q&A Library
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Yogi Cameron: A Model Guru, the hit TV show on Veria Living Network, is looking in the Denver and Los Angeles areas for men and women suffering from chronic ailments (e.g., depression, autism, diabetes, effects of menopause, veterans’ issues, adult acne, arthritis, infertility, fibromyalgia, panic attacks, etc. ).

People selected for the series will receive a complimentary consultation and wellness plan created and supervised by Yogi Cameron Alborzian, one of the world’s leading experts of Ayurveda and yoga.  Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of holistic treatments that helps restore the body to healthy balance.

Taping starts in September in Denver and October in L.A.  Check out Yogi Cameron’s Facebook page or website. Cameron is the author of The Guru in You and he is a frequent guest on The Dr. Oz Show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show and The Today Show.

To request an application or for more information contact:
Sarah Finley sfinley@highnoontv.com | 303.872.8598

Or fill out a casting application at High Noon's web site right here.

Q:

My husband is 64 and was just diagnosed with multiple myeloma. I would like to know what herbs, tea and even certain foods he can eat to help him with this condition? Also, what foods should he stop eating? He likes wine, and candy. We don't eat much red meat but do eat chicken and fish once in a while. I'm trying to give him some fresh fruits and vegetables?

A:

Were your husband to receive treatment from a trained Ayurvedic practitioner, he would likely be prescribed a highly potent herbal regimen to address this disease at the deepest levels of his bodily tissues. He would also likely be prescribed certain therapies like enemas to help alleviate the buildup of toxicity in the body. To learn more about Ayurvedic practitioners, you can go to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

What is most significant about your question, though, is that you seem to already have a grasp of the information that’s important in helping his body to heal itself naturally. In feeding him fresh fruits and vegetables, you already know how he will stand to benefit from avoiding their processed counterparts. By listing his affinity for candy and wine, you know that these substances have a toxic effect. Shift him away from consuming any sort of animal protein at all, including chicken and fish, for these foods have low water content and are difficult to digest; this taxes the body’s resources and makes it harder to keep the disease at bay. Also, have him favor cooked foods over raw foods, reduce the size and number of his meals, and have him refrain from eating the last four or five hours before he goes to bed.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Is Cancer Part Of Our Aging Process?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

Is it safe to use cocoa butter during pregnancy on my stretch marks?

A:

Using all natural, organic cocoa butter should generally be a safe substance to apply to the skin. Other methods for helping along the health and resiliency of the skin during pregnancy include applying olive oil or almond oil to the affected areas or mixing ten drops of the essential oil of lavender with an ounce of wheat germ oil and applying that. Consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner or even an OBGYN with a knowledge of holistic modalities when determining the ideal methods for resolving the scarring involved with stretch marks.

To learn more about Ayurvedic practitioners, you can go to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Difference Between An Ayurveda Massage And A Regular Massage?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Yogi Cameron is taping Season 2 of A Model Guru, and would like you to take part in his upcoming special by submitting a video. Here's the kind of video he wants to see from you:

• Ask Yogi Cameron a question about Ayurveda or yoga.
• Ask a question about what you saw in an episode of A Model Guru.
• Ask anything you want to know about Yogi Cameron?
• Ask any question of any of our Season 1 characters (Mario, Aggie, Debbie, Nikki, Kate, Nicole, Abigail, Jill, Simion, Margot, Joe, Christian, Bob or Lexie).
• Show Yogi Cameron your favorite yoga move, or you taking herbs, or meditating, or cooking with ghee. Show him anyway you’re incorporating Ayurveda into your life.

Guidelines For Submitting Video:

Step 1: Tape yourself on your phone or with your digital camera, looking into your camera lens.
Step 2: Make sure your clothing/hat has no logos!
Step 3: Looking into the camera, spell your first & last name.
Step 4: Ask your question, or videotape yourself practicing any aspect of your Ayurvedic practice.
Step 5: Upload your video to YouTube and email us the link, at askyogi@highnoontv.com. YouTube has privacy settings so you can control who sees your video.)

Taping Tips:

- Keep your questions and comments succinct.
- If you’re asking a question, frame your face in close-up.
- If you’re showing a yoga pose, wide shots that show the entire body are preferred.
- Make sure you have ample light; the most common cause of unusable video is it’s too dark.
- Shoot outdoors if possible.
- Make sure there’s no TV/music noise in the background.

Due to overwhelming response, we will not be able to respond to all submittals.

Good luck and happy shooting!

Q:

I have high blood pressure and take 13 pills through out the day. Can you help me get off some of these pills, if not all then at least some?

A:

I commend your goal to get yourself off of these pills, for filling yourself up with such substances will take its toll on your body in the long-term. At the same time, though, it would be ill advised for me or anyone else to provide you with a precise regimen to wean yourself off of them without knowing more about your specific condition and working with you to determine the root cause of the imbalances in your circulatory system. I recommend seeking the services of a trained Ayurvedic practitioner to work with you and help you to create a lifestyle and a regimen that will help you to no longer need all of this medication over time. To learn more about Ayurvedic practitioners, you can go to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

With that said, there are more general things you can do to help balance issues related to your circulation and help you to feel better overall. Generally, Ayurveda teaches us that hypertension as well as other heart-related disorders can be caused by consuming too many indigestible foods, exerting oneself to the point of feeling excessive fatigue, feeling excessive emotions associated with stress like worry and fear, and suppressing one’s natural urges like urination and sneezing. To begin taking steps toward reducing your high blood pressure, refrain from eating packaged foods like chips, prepared and frozen meals, and canned goods, refrain from eating the last four or five hours before you go to bed, and refrain from doing too much work and unnecessary chores in any given week.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Tips for Reducing High LDL & Cholesterol?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

What are medicated oils and why are they used in Ayurveda?

A:

Ayurvedic practitioners take certain oils, such as sesame oil, and infuse them with herbs that have a specific medicinal value.  Over the centuries, natural oils have been found to be of tremendous benefit to the body, for they have a nourishing, rejuvenating property.  If you felt dried up and dehydrated and were to rub water on your skin, would the skin absorb it and provide you with hydration?  Of course not.  You would have to drink the water to enjoy its benefit.  In contrast, oil can very much be absorbed by the skin, and when this happens the body enjoys its therapeutic qualities. Different oils are used for different forms of treatment, such as using bhringaraj oil for the health of the hair and using sahacharadi for back pain.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: What Is The First Thing You Do When Treating A Patient?
Healing QA: Is Ghee One Of The Things You Can't Live Without?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

I keep suffering from yeast infections. Right now I have a vaginal one and one in my throat. What do you recommend to help me?

A:

The fundamental Ayurvedic process for resolving disease in the body is to identify the root cause of the illness and eliminate it so as to prevent further disease from taking place.  Possible causes are identified through the balance and imbalance of the patient’s three doshas, and her specific symptoms are a reflection of the imbalance.  When addressing a vaginal yeast infection, and yeast overgrowth in general, an Ayurvedic practitioner will identify the imbalance of the patient’s doshas and prescribe a regimen that balances it through standard practices (dosha-balancing diet, herbs, etc.).  In addition, it is the goal of the practitioner to specifically help the patient to relieve her of the fungus and harmful bacteria that are specifically causing the infection.  Though identifying the root cause of the ailment is a necessary step, it is also important for the vaginal yeast infection sufferer to more precisely relieve the associated symptoms.

• Vata-related vaginal yeast infections are characterized by severe pain, dryness, and sticky discharges.  These infections are likely to be accompanied by insomnia, constipation, and dryness of the skin.
• Pitta-related vaginal yeast infections are characterized by burning sensations, irritation, redness, and foul odor.  These infections are likely to be accompanied by sweating, hyperacidity, and a general feeling of heat in the body.
• Kapha-related vaginal yeast infections are characterized by itching sensations and excessive amounts of white mucousy discharges.  These infections are likely to be accompanied by respiratory congestion and feelings of lethargy.

Along with balancing whichever dosha is imbalanced as defined by the patient’s symptoms through a dosha-balancing diet, herbs, and other therapies, an Ayurvedic practitioner will treat the vaginal yeast infection sufferer by prescribing her remedies specific to symptoms associated with the infection.  These remedies will include herbal douches that act as a natural antiseptic in relieving the vaginal area of infection as well as other methods. Use the essential oils of lavender, oregano, tea tree, or cinnamon bark for an herbal douche. Mix one drop of oil to half a cup of water.  Boil the water and then let it cool before mixing with the oil and using it. If there is a burning sensation from the douche, increase the amount of water relative to the drop of oil. Ultimately, these proportions will be individual and will depend on the thickness or sensitivity of the vagina’s inner lining. The douche can be administered with a ‘douche flush’ bought from a pharmacy.

The goldenseal herb can also be used for a douche.  Prepare the goldenseal as if making a tea with it.  Let it cool and use it as a douche. Use one tea bag for one cup of water.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Can You Give Me Some Guidelines About Why I Shouldn't Mix Certain Foods?
Healing QA: Can I Take My Medication When Using Ayurveda?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Cardiovascular Diseases Risk Factors

Cardiovascular diseases are caused by a build up of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels, which make it difficult for blood to move around the body. The condition is exacerbated by the following conditions:

1. High blood pressure – high blood pressure causes the heart to overwork.  This will eventually lead to damage of the arteries. 
2. Cholesterol – high cholesterol levels in the blood causes blood to flow slowly.  This allows plaque to build up in the arteries and blood vessels.
3. Obesity –obese people tend to have high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure, making them more susceptible to cardiovascular diseases and other health problems. The more weight you carry around, the harder the heart has to work.
4. Stress – stress has a major effect on cardiovascular health. Stress releases chemicals that increase blood pressure and heart rate, putting strain on the cardiovascular system.
5. Depression: A recent study by Concordia University in Montreal has shown that depression increases risk of cardiovascular disease. In part because depression reduces all elements of a healthy lifestyle—a healthy diet and regular exercise—but also it was shown that people with depression have a harder time recovering a normal heart rate after exercise.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Coronary Artery Disease / Coronary Heart Disease

• Angina – Due to the narrowing and hardening of the arteries, which causes a lack of blood to the heart, people tend to experience chest pain. Called angina, chest pain is the most common symptom of cardiovascular disease.
• Shortness of Breath – Because the cells in the body are not receiving enough oxygen from the blood, shortness of breath will result, even in people who exercise regularly.Increased heart rate –Because the heart needs to pump harder in order to provide sufficient levels of blood, the heart rate tends to increase.Feelings of
  
• Weakness – because of the inadequate supply of blood in the body, coronary heart disease can cause a feeling of weakness and lethargy.

Peripheral Vascular Disease - Peripheral artery disease is a disease of the blood vessels that causes the narrowing and hardening of the arteries that supply the legs and feet. It has the following symptoms:

• Cramps – Because of blocked blood supply, people with peripheral vascular disease often experience cramps in their arms and legs.
• Numbness and Tingling – in extreme cases, peripheral vascular disease can cause numbness and tingling in extremities—the parts of the body furthest from the heart-- like the feet. As the extremities are going numb, they will feel tingly and painful. This is when the nerves are becoming damaged due to inadequate blood supply.
• Physical changes in the extremities – a decrease in muscle size, change in color of the skin, or change in temperature on the extremities is also an indication that they are starved of blood.

Cardiovascular Disease  Transmission

Cardiovascular diseases are in part genetic. In 1985, Michael Brown and Joseph Goldstein were awarded the Nobel Prize in medicine for proving that a genetic mutation was responsible for high cholesterol that runs in families. This mutation prevents the cholesterol in the blood from being properly metabolized. But in most cases, lifestyle and diet are the key factors associated with the diseases.

Treatment Options For Cardiovascular Diseases

Coronary Artery Disease / Coronary Heart Disease

• Aspirin – as a blood thinner, aspirin is often recommended for people with coronary artery disease.
  
• Medication and better diet – people with coronary heart disease should control their cholesterol and blood pressure by eating healthier foods and taking cholesterol-lowering drugs.
  
• Angioplasty – Angioplasty is a surgery where a thin tube is inserted into the blocked artery to make it wider so that blood can flow faster and freer.
  
• Bypass Surgery – this is a surgery where the blocked artery is bypassed using another blood vessel, which is taken from another part of the body. The blood flow will be redirected to the new blood vessel so that the blood can flow better.

Peripheral Vascular Disease

• Anticoagulants and antiplatelets – these are blood thinners that will blood flow more freely and prevent clotting. 
• Cilostazol - a medication to help increase the blood supply to the legs and arms.
• Pentoxifylline – this medication also helps in improving the blood flow in the extremities by making the blood less sticky.
• Angioplasty – angioplasty can also be done for people with peripheral vascular disease.

Prevention Of Cardiovascular Diseases

1. Stop Smoking – As many as 30% of deaths caused from cardiovascular diseases are attributable to smoking. Smoking causes the normal wall of arteries and blood vessels to break down which are then replaced with thicker, tougher walls. Quitting smoking has been shown to immediately reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
2. Exercise – Exercise increases the strength of the heart. It helps lower cholesterol and regulate blood pressure.
3. Eat heart-healthy foods – increase intake of omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and chia seeds. Avoid foods that are high in cholesterol such as sugar, salt, and fats.
4. Lose weight – Losing weight and eating less fat will greatly reduce the chances of cardiovascular diseases. Obese people automatically have high cholesterol and high blood pressure, which increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
5. Manage stress – Stress relieving activities like exercise and meditation will have a positive affect on overall health and the health of the heart.

Cardiovascular diseases like coronary heart disease and peripheral vascular disease are the number one cause of death in the United States. Changing what you eat to a heart-healthy diet, managing your stress, keeping a healthy body weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and regular exercise are all positive steps towards prevention. Be good to yourself and your heart – you deserve it! 

Check Out Our Related Content:
Heart-Health and Cardiovascular Disease
Medicinal Herbs

Q:

I'm a new mom. Do you have any advice on raising kids?

A:

One thing that Ayurveda teaches us about people—including young children—is that each person is born with a basic constitutional nature.  This is relevant in terms of the best food to eat and certain illnesses to be particularly observant about, but it also means that we have a certain temperament as well.  When raising your children, be sure to raise them as exactly who they need to be as based on their fundamental nature, and not based on who you think they should be.  If you were really into the arts as a child but your son or daughter is really into sports, then let them flourish as much as they can in that type of experience.  If you happen to have a particularly analytical mind but your child is very free flowing in their thought, then give them the opportunity to explore their nature as a gift. Regardless of who your child is, you will both benefit from enriching each others’ lives in whatever way suits your respective natures.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: How Do You Decide What To Eat For Dinner?
Healing QA: How To Start Practicing Ayurveda?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

What is sun gazing and how does it improve health?

A:

The sun contains within itself tremendous healing energy, and yet staring at it directly can be harmful to our vision—except at very specific times.  Right when the sun is rising and right when it is setting, it is far less intense and yet still possesses rejuvenating properties.  To sun gaze, stare at the sun for the first and last ten minutes you see it, and then enjoy the health benefits that ensue.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: What Does Yogi Cameron Use For Deodorant?
Healing QA: How Can I Treat Depression?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

My mom thinks cancer may be a natural part of our aging process? Do you agree that cancer might be inevitable? And if not, what can we do to prevent it?

A:

Cancer is the body’s response to no longer being able to sustain its various systems in a healthy and balanced way.  Ayurveda teaches us that our health begins with digestion, and what this means is that if we bog our bodies down with processed, difficult-to-digest food—and if we eat an excessive amount as a whole—then the body will have to spend much more energy digesting all of this food.  The more energy it uses to digest food, the less energy it will have to do everything else—like fight off Cancer.  In other words, two people could have the same exact genetic predisposition toward Cancer, but if one person gorges themselves on unnatural foods and one of them does not, then the one that doesn’t stands a far greater chance of living their life Cancer-free.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: How To Handle Many Ailments?
Healing QA: Is Dryness The Root Of All Illness?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

What is the difference between an Ayurveda massage and a regular massage?

A:

When we go to masseuse who practices conventional Western massage therapy, we experience a kneading and manipulation of the muscles and connective tissue for the sake of releasing tension, fostering relaxation, and stress relief.  In other words, we tie ourselves up in knots throughout the week, and then rely on the therapy to undo what has been done.  In contrast, an Ayurvedic oil massage, known as abyangha, is a specific form of therapy intended to help strengthen and nourish the body’s various systems and to help the body function more optimally as a whole regardless of specific stresses or other stimuli.  Abyangha is often prescribed for those who experience severe dryness in the body as might be the case for those with constipation, osteoarthritis, and other conditions indicative of too much of the air element.  Essentially, Western massage is intended to reverse damage done to the body through a detrimental lifestyle, and abyangha is prescribed as a specific modality for strengthening the body’s overall functionality.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: How Do You Decide What To Eat For Dinner?
Healing QA: How To Handle Many Ailments?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

Do I have to completely change my diet to follow Ayurveda? I've heard there are certain foods that I should avoid mixing. Is this true?

A:

Ayurvedic tradition teaches us to not mix certain kinds of foods together in meals. Different foods have different types of enzymes and properties like being cold or hot in nature, and eating them together can lead to gastrointestinal distress as well as accompanying symptoms (flatulence, acid reflux, diarrhea, constipation, etc.).  Dairy should not be mixed with fruits, animal proteins, fish, and sour tastes like pickles.  In addition, it is ideal not to eat cooked foods and raw foods in the same meal, to not eat cold foods after eating ghee, and to not eat dry foods with too much liquid (e.g. dry cereal with milk).  Each of these combinations can hinder digestion and cause imbalance in the body.  Also, be sure to reduce the amount of liquid consumed with your meal to half a cup of warm or room temperature water, as liquid can hinder digestion.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Spring & Summer Diet Tips?
Healing QA: Tips for Reducing High LDL & Cholesterol?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

Summer is coming.  I know that I have to protect my skin.  Are there natural sunscreens I can use?

A:

There are a number of oils that are beneficial to the skin and will help to protect you from the sun.  Consider using products that are based on coconut oil, or use another oil like neem oil.  When considering natural alternatives, however, always be sure to double-check that the product doesn’t simply have a few drops of a natural substance like one of these oils but is otherwise filled with water, alcohol, and chemicals.  These types of products not only are less effective, but they expose the body to unwanted ingredients.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Tips For Preventing Hair Loss?
Healing QA: What Is The Best Way To Avoid Neck And Back Pain?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

My father has just started showing signs of Alzheimer's. What do you suggest?

A:

Alzheimer’s, as well as other forms of dementia, can be very difficult to navigate with a loved one.  What often happens when someone we love goes through this process is that we recognize that their reality becomes different from our own, and we perceive this disparity as a problem.  Often, though, they’re not really upset unless the people around them impose their sense of conflict onto the situation.  Tension ensues.  While I imagine your question was about helping you to find ways to reverse the disease, I encourage you to spend some time observing your father’s behavior and determining whether or not he really is suffering as a result of the onset of Alzheimer’s.  If he isn’t, then it might be ideal for you to allow him to manage his way through this transition in peace.  However, if you find that this situation must be resolved in some way, you can encourage him to practice breathing exercises that require him to concentrate on his breath.  This may help him to keep his brain functioning at an optimal level and therefore slow the progress of his condition.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Can I Take My Medication When Using Ayurveda?
Healing QA:What Can Be Done For Grief?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

Do I have to be a vegetarian to follow an Ayurvedic lifestyle?

A:

Ayurvedic tradition does indeed suggest following a vegetarian diet, but the reason for this isn’t because of any dogmatic ideal but because animal protein has very low water content and is therefore difficult to digest.  Ayurveda teaches us that health begins with digestion, as the more energy we need to use to digest food, the less energy we have for other bodily processes like maintaining our immune system.  When we eat animal proteins like beef and chicken, our digestion has to work overtime to process it.  When this happens, we feel tired after eating and even sluggish throughout the day.  If you do choose to follow a vegetarian diet, do so not because you feel it’s something you have to do in order to subscribe to an Ayurvedic lifestyle, but because it will help you to feel lighter throughout the day.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: How Do You Decide What To Eat For Dinner?
Healing QA: Is Ghee One Of The Things You Can't Live Without?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

I just started dating someone who I really like, but there is one catch. She has a cat, and I am so allergic to them. What steps can I take to help?

A:

Allergies that lead to congestion and other mucus-like buildups are creating this reaction because the body is stabilizing itself against whatever may be harming the system. Along with eliminating direct contact with the cat as much as you can, as well as washing your hands after coming in contact with its dander, you can also lessen the likelihood and intensity of the reactions themselves through a few basic lifestyle modifications:

• Refrain from eating for the last five hours of the day, so that your body can properly digest its food and absorb toxicity in the body before you go to bed.  On an empty stomach, your body will digest the allergens it would otherwise react to.
• Refrain from eating sweets, as this type of food will increase the build-up of mucus-like substances in the body.
• Avoid eating spicy and sour foods, as these types of foods create heat in the body and exacerbate allergic reactions.
• Avoid alcohol and coffee, as these substances likewise create heat in the body and intensify allergic reactions.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: What Can I Do For Asthma?
Healing QA: How To Handle Many Ailments?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds

Q:

What is the cause of reflux and what do you recommend to stop it?

A:

Given its close association with the stomach, Ayurveda relates the problem of acid reflux to an excessive build-up of Pitta energy. Pitta energy sits in the stomach and is responsible for fueling the digestive fire that metabolizes energy, and when food has passed from stomach to the small intestines, the fire and heat level of the body rise. When we consume substances like spicy foods, heavy meats, and sour foods like yogurt and pickles, however, the level of heat in the body rises to excessive levels and symptoms occur. Symptoms typically appear a few hours after eating these fiery foods.

Ayurveda simulates the action of antacid-type medications through diet modification. To alleviate symptoms, it is important to eat foods that reduce heat in the body like milk and ghee and avoid the foods that increase it like yogurt and pickles. Additionally, taking herbs can have a cleansing effect on the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. Other lifestyle modifications you can make include:

• Avoid acidic and sour foods.
• Avoid spicy foods.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Chew your food slowly and deliberately.
• Stop eating at least three or four hours before going to bed.
• Maintain proper posture both while and after eating.
• Drink 1 to 3 cups of warm water each day. Refrain from drinking immediately before or after meals.
• Drink 1 to 3 tablespoons of Aloe Vera gel.
• During meals, only drink half a cup of warm water with food.
• End your meal when your stomach is only half full.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Can Our Doshas Change?
Healing QA: Can Ayurveda Improve My Thyroid Function?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

Where does sex fit into an ayurvedic practice?  Do you have to be celibate? And if not, is masturbation ok?

A:

The sage Patanjali outlined the Yogic tradition of the Eightfold Path in his masterwork The Yoga Sutras.  In this text, he describes continence, which is the act of sexual abstinence.  Given how good having sex can feel, why should this even be a practice worth considering?  As the source of our procreative power, our sexual energy is the most powerful energy we have.  It takes a significant amount of bodily resources to create this energy, and continuously expelling it compromises our health and undermines our vitality.  When we have a lot of sex, we have less energy for creation—such as completing a project at work or producing something artistic.  Given this, it is ideal to curb one’s sexual appetite and instead channel that reserved energy into more productive acts.  Masturbation that includes this type of release likewise compromises one’s vitality, so if you feel this is a necessary aspect of your lifestyle, then consider practicing some form of ejaculation mastery that can help you to enjoy the pleasure of orgasm but withhold from ejaculating your seed.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Can I Take My Medication When Using Ayurveda?
Healing QA: What Is The Best Way To Avoid Neck And Back Pain?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Lifestyle Changes Needed!

Diabetes type 2 is a metabolic disorder that is characterized by high blood glucose in the context of insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency. Unlike people with type 1 diabetes, people with type 2 diabetes actually produce insulin; however, either their pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body cannot use the insulin adequately. This is called insulin resistance. When there is not enough insulin in the body or the insulin is not being used as it should be, glucose (sugar) can't get into the body's cells. When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, the body's cells are deprived of energy and are not able to function properly. If high glucose levels in the blood persist, it may damage the eyes, heart, kidneys, or nerves. In the United States, diabetes type 2 is often considered an epidemic -- it has been shown that nearly 21 million people in U.S. have it. Out of them, about 90% to 95% have type 2 diabetes.
 

General Risk Factors

The risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes include the following:

1. High blood pressure

2. High blood triglyceride (fat) levels

3. Gestational diabetes or giving birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds

4. High-fat diet

5. High alcohol intake

6. Sedentary lifestyle

7. Obesity or being overweight

Causes 

1. Genetic: Research shows that type 2 diabetes has strong genetic links. Type 2 diabetes tends to run in families. Several genes have been identified and more are under study, which may relate to the causes of type 2 diabetes.
2. Ethnicity: Certain groups, such as African Americans, Native Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Japanese Americans, have a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes than non-Hispanic whites.
3. Aging: Age is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Risk begins to rise significantly at about age 45 years, and rises considerably after age 65 years.

Signs and Symptoms

1. Elevated Blood Sugar Levels: High blood sugar level is an early symptom of untreated diabetes. The presence of glucose in the urine is also a sign that there is excess glucose in the body. High amounts of glucose in the urine can cause increased urine output and lead to dehydration.
2. Organ Damage: If your blood sugar levels are not regulated through insulin and diet, it can lead to fairly serious problems. Over time, high blood sugar can lead damage to blood vessels, kidneys, and other vital organs.
3. Weight Gain: Diabetes affects the body’s ability to metabolize sugars leading to elevated levels. Higher blood sugar levels are turned to fat, and this can cause weight gain in persons with diabetes.
4. Fatigue, Nausea, and Vomiting: Some untreated diabetes patients have complained of fatigue, nausea and vomiting.
5. Infections: It has been discovered that patients with diabetes are prone to developing infections of the bladder, skin, and vaginal areas.
6. Blurred vision: Fluctuations in blood glucose levels can lead to blurred vision.

Transmission

Type 2 diabetes is frequently genetic. Hyperglycemia in pregnancy might also contribute to diabetes in the children of mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Management

There is not a cure for type 2 diabetes but it can be managed. Some people can control their particular condition with lifestyle changes. Others may need to take medicines or use insulin injections.

Lifestyle Changes:  The following lifestyle changes will help control your blood glucose levels:

1. Nutrition: Eat a healthy balanced diet with regular meals, three times a day. Include carbohydrates, such as pasta or potatoes in each meal.

2. Exercise: Aim to do 150 minutes of moderate exercise over a week in bouts of 10 minutes or more. This will help you to stay a healthy weight and control your blood glucose levels.

3. Alcohol: Only drink alcohol in moderation and stick within the recommended limits.

4. Tobacco: If you smoke, give it up. Smoking is unhealthy for everyone, but quitting is especially important for diabetics because you already have an increased risk of developing circulatory problems and cardiovascular disease.

5. Oral Medications: In those cases where lifestyle changes alone will not keep your blood glucose levels under control, you may be prescribed one of the following medicines:

6. Metformin works by reducing the amount of glucose that is released into your bloodstream from your liver. It also improves the way glucose is used by your muscles.

7. Gliclazide (not marketed in US), glipizide, glimepiride, and tolbutamide help your pancreas to produce more insulin.

8. Repaglinide and nateglinide also help your pancreas to produce more insulin, but work more quickly and last for a shorter time.

9. Acarbose lowers your blood glucose by slowing down the rate at which some carbohydrates are absorbed by your body.

10. Pioglitazone reduces your body's resistance to insulin.

11. Sitagliptin, saxagliptin, and vildagliptin help your body to reduce glucagon levels which leads to less glucose by decreasing conversion of glycogen to glucose.

These medicines are usually taken between one and three times a day.

Injections:  You may be prescribed other medicines that are given by injection and work by helping your body to make more insulin when it is needed. They can also reduce your appetite and help you lose weight. You will usually inject yourself with insulin once or twice a day, using either a small needle or a pen-type syringe with replaceable cartridges. There are several different types of insulin that work at different rates and for different lengths of time. Ask your family doctor for advice on which type is best for you. If you have insulin injections, you will need to monitor your blood glucose levels with a home test kit. This involves taking a pinprick of blood from your finger and putting a drop on a testing strip. A meter will read the result automatically. Your family doctor or diabetes specialist nurse will show you how to monitor your blood glucose levels and tell you how often you need to check it.

Prevention

Onset of type 2 diabetes can be prevented through proper nutrition and regular exercise. Intensive lifestyle measures may reduce the risk by over half.

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight is the number one risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Even modest weight loss can help prevent type 2 diabetes from developing. To find out if you are overweight, you can use the body mass index (BMI) chart for adults or the same chart in metric. If you need to lose weight, losing as few as 10 lb (4.5 kg) to 20 lb (9.1 kg) can help reduce your risk of developing diabetes.

2. Exercise Regularly: Getting enough exercise lowers your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Do activities that raise your heart rate. It is recommended that you should try to do moderate activity at least 2½ hours a week. Or try to do vigorous activity at least 1¼ hours a week. It is fine to be active in blocks of 10 minutes or more throughout your day and week. Aim for aerobic exercise. This does not mean that you have to do strenuous activities or join an expensive gym - anything that increases your heart rate counts, such as raking the yard. Walking groups or programs where you use a pedometer to count the number of steps you take in a day are great ways to start exercising and to stay motivated. If you have problems with the nerves in your legs and feet, your may want to choose activities that do not put any stress in these areas. If you are at risk for type 2 diabetes, using an exercise planning form may help you and your doctor or other health professional to create a personalized exercise program.

3. Eat Healthy Foods: Discipline yourself to eating a balanced diet, including whole grains, lean meat, and vegetables. Limit saturated fats. Limit alcohol. Limit calories in order to avoid gaining weight, or to help you lose weight. Reduce your intake of soft drinks, sugary foods, and junk food. Try to eat smaller meals more often in order to keep blood sugar levels within your target range. Eating more vegetables, whole grains, and nuts can lower your risk for type 2 diabetes. Eating a lot of sugary foods, fast foods, and red meat (especially processed red meat) and drinking a lot of soft drinks can increase your risk for type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes type 2 is a metabolic disorder caused by high blood glucose. This is due to insulin resistance or relative insulin deficiency. There is no known cure for the condition.  Being overweight is the number one risk factor for the condition. By managing your body weight, or changing your lifestyle, the condition can be prevented, or managed. If lifestyle changes cannot keep your blood glucose levels under control, you may need to have oral medications, insulin medications, or insulin injections.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Diabetes: A Holistic View
Head To Toe Health Tips: Go Lean, Go Vegan

Q:

I am married, have three kids, work full time and always seem to be grabbing food on the run. (I live in the suburbs, so think drive-throughs.) Although I try to feed my kids and husband better than I feed myself (we always sit down for dinner most nights), I feel like I wouldn't get by without sugar and caffeine. They are the only things that keep me going from 3pm through the rest of the work day. Are there any fast foods you recommend that could actually be good for me?

A:

I’d like to steer you away from fast-food places in general, for even if they were serving you natural foods—which they’re usually not—they are serving them after they’ve been frozen, defrosted, heated up, fried, or had something else done to them.  If there is a place like a market or a fruit stand that serves fruit and vegetables on the go, consider eating those with something simple like hummus.  If a fast-food place is really the only place you can go, then consider eating the salads that they serve.   Ultimately, your goal must be to find food that is actually food (fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, oils), and not some distant relative of food.  When on the road, this is harder than ever.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: How Do You Decide What To Eat For Dinner?
Healing QA: How Can I Treat Depression?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Potassium chloride is a medication that is available only by prescription, mainly to treat a potassium deficiency, called hypokalemia, although it is also used to treat other conditions.

Active Ingredients

Potassium chloride is mainly used to treat and prevent potassium deficiency in the body. Potassium is an essential element concentrated in every cell of the body and necessary to regulate the heart. It is also essential to maintain normal calcium balance in the body, control blood pressure, activate enzymes needed for energy production, protein synthesis and maintaining healthy nervous and muscle systems.

Given the important roles that potassium plays in the body, low potassium levels (hypokalemia) can result in serious health conditions. The symptoms of a potassium deficiency include fatigue, muscle cramps or general weakness, feeling dizzy, being thirsty all the time, and changes in the heart rate or rhythm. Talk to your doctor if you have any of these symptoms and think that lack of potassium is to blame. 

Benefits of Potassium Chloride

1. Maintenance of a healthy nervous system: Potassium helps the body maintain a healthy calcium balance. Calcium is one of the most important ions involved in the transmission of signals within the nervous system. Potassium also enables cells to transmit electrical impulses between each other. 
2. Maintenance of a healthy cardiovascular system: Potassium is an important element in the maintenance of a healthy heart. Potassium helps keep the heart muscles healthy by relaying electrical signals between the muscles and the nervous system. 
3. Maintenance of a healthy muscular-skeletal system: Potassium helps to keep the nervous system healthy and, therefore, plays a major role in the body’s motor system. Apart from this, potassium also helps in protein synthesis and therefore affects muscle buildup. With regards to the skeletal system, potassium helps maintain a calcium balance within the body, necessary for healthy teeth and bones. 
4. Helps regulate the metabolism: Potassium is necessary for the activation of enzymes which help in cell metabolism. It is, therefore, an important element in the body’s energy production.
5. Replacement for sodium in salt: People with hypertension or who are on a sodium-restricted diet usually use potassium chloride as a replacement. Talk to your doctor if potassium chloride is right for you as a sodium replacement. 

Related Content:

Healing Q&A Library 
Healing QA: Do I Have To Change My Life To Practice Ayurveda?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!

Q:

How do you keep your home green?

A:

As we become more and more dependent on technology and the energy that technology uses, it likewise becomes harder to remain eco-friendly at home and everywhere else.  However, along with having an electric hybrid car that almost never uses any fuel, I also try to minimize the amount of water I use by taking short showers, I turn off the heat at night, I don’t own an air conditioner, I use eco-friendly cleaning products instead of those made out of harmful chemicals, I recycle as much as my local program allows me to, and I bring re-usable shopping bags to the supermarket. 

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: What Is The First Thing You Do When Treating A Patient?
Healing QA:Are There Really Cures For Everything?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Q:

If you had to choose between eating at a McDonald's, Pizza Hut, or Kentucky Fried Chicken, which one would you choose and what would you eat there?

A:

I’d actually sooner fast for a week than eat at any of these places, but if for some reason I was forced to eat there, I would probably just have some whole milk from the beverages section at McDonald’s.  I would, of course, add some ghee and spices to it to ensure that there’s some nutritional value to it.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: Ayurveda Tips for Dental Care?
Healing QA: How Do You Decide What To Eat For Dinner?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Origin Of Cupping

The earliest records of someone performing the technique of cupping are of Ge Hong, a Taoist and a famous herbalist and alchemist from the third century.  He wrote the process of cupping in the book titled A Handbook of Prescriptions for Emergencies. Ge Hong used the horns of animals in his practice. Thus, it was called horn technique during the early years. During the Qing Dynasty, Zhao Xuemin wrote a book entitled Supplement to Outline of Materia Medica, which describes a technique using heated cups made of pottery or bamboo. The technique was called huoquan qi or fire jar qi. This technique was used to treat abdominal pain, dizziness, headaches, and others. One traditional use for cupping was to stimulate the body’s qi to flush out any toxins, such as cold viruses. Cupping has evolved since these early beginnings – today air is sucked out of the cups with either a pump or by creating a vacuum with a flame.
 

How It Works

Cupping works by suctioning the skin and some layers of muscle into the cups to stimulate the body’s flow of qi. The Chinese believe that blocked energy paths in the body create numerous health problems, such as hormonal imbalances, joint and muscle pains, and decrease in blood flow. With the vacuum pull that cupping provides, muscles are loosened, nerves stimulated, and blood flow is increased. Chinese medicine emphasizes the interconnected of bodily systems and organs – improved circulation and energy is said to vivify the whole body.
 

Benefits

1. More Energy Flow: according to the Chinese, cupping can help in improving the flow of chi or energy in the body. It is said that cupping can suck the negative energy from the body to let the positive energy flow more freely. The cups are places on specific key points of the body where energy is said to be collected. When the body is full of positive energy, both physical and mental health will improve.
2. Pain Relief: When the heated cups are moved around the skin while the cup is still suctioned, it creates a massage-like feeling that can ease muscle pain. Proponents say that that a cupping treatment is more effective at pain relief than a traditional massage, and the effects last longer. 
3. Relaxes Muscles: cupping is a good technique that can ease muscle stiffness and increase blood flow. This leads to better oxidation of the muscles which can increase flexibility and reaction time.
4. Stress Removal: cupping can be very relaxing to the body and the mind. Cupping is usually performed in a very relaxing and calm atmosphere. The therapist is very gentle with what they do, and the strokes that they make with the cup are very similar to most massage therapies. 
5. It improves digestion: cupping therapies can help improve the digestive system when the cups are applied to the stomach area. By relaxing the stomach muscles and improving blood flow, it can increase nutrient absorption.

Remedies

1. Rheumatic diseases: Cupping is used to treat rheumatic diseases like arthritis and muscle conditions. Cupping can increase the blood supply in the areas where the cup is placed. By increasing blood flow and oxygen to the affected area, it can reduce inflammation.
2. Skin problems: cupping can suck out toxins and other impurities in the skin and muscles. This can benefit people with skin problems like acne and eczema.
3. Gynecological disorders: cupping may help women with gynecological disorders. It can stimulate a woman’s reproductive organs through the massage-like movements of the cupping therapy and through improvement of blood flow.
4. Psychological disorders: cupping therapies are very relaxing. It is often used to treat anxiety, chronic pain and insomnia. By relaxing the body, it can help relax the mind, triggering a positive hormonal response, which can greatly affects a person’s mood.

Side Effects

The main side effect from cupping are its marks, swelling and bruising along the back. These marks should fade after a few hours, although they may take longer. Aside, there are no known severe side effects that are associated with cupping. Some people who have their first cupping therapy may feel some discomfort as they become used to the sucking pressure of the cups.

Cupping is an ancient Chinese practice that has grown increasingly popular in the west. While its medical benefits are not yet proven, many find cupping deeply relaxing, and find that it stimulates blood flow and good energy. Cupping operates on the same principles as qi and acupuncture, which has a number of scientific studies to support certain health benefits, such as easing headaches, stress, anxiety, allergies, fatigue, asthma, digestion problems, skin conditions such as eczema, and psoriasis, and others.

Related Content
Holistic Approach: Scalp Massage
Energizing Massage

Q:

Can you give the basic food plans for the different doshas?  What is the most important foods to eat? And what foods should be eliminated?

A:

Each doshic imbalance benefits from a basic action to be taken as defined by one’s food intake.  Vata imbalances benefit from eating food that creates less airiness and dryness and instead builds moisture.  Pitta imbalances benefit from eating food that creates less heat in the body and instead cools it off.  Kapha imbalances benefit from eating food that creates less moisture in the body and instead burns the moisture off.

• Foods to favor in response to excessive Vata energy: ghee, berries, apricots, fresh figs, peaches, plums, carrots, beets, zucchini, sweet potatoes, asparagus, unbleached whole wheat, white basmati rice, mung beans, olive oil, and sesame oil.
• Foods to avoid in response to excessive Vata energy: apples, pears, watermelon, cauliflower, broccoli, tomatoes, celery, eggplant, corn, dry oats, barley, most legumes, and cold foods in general.
• Foods to favor in response to excessive Pitta energy: ghee, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, barley, cooked oats, white basmati rice, olive oil, and coconut oil.
• Foods to avoid in response to excessive Pitta energy: grapefruit, bananas, cherries, pineapple, tomatoes, garlic, carrots, spinach, brown rice, corn, nuts, lentils, corn oil, almond oil, spicy foods, sour foods like yogurt and pickles, salt, and meat.
• Foods to favor in response to excessive Kapha energy: prunes, raisins, cherries, pomegranates, dry figs, radishes, onions, sprouts, Brussels sprouts, vegetable soup, barley, millet, ghee, mustard oil.
• Foods to avoid in response to excessive Kapha energy: bananas, melons, papayas, avocados, plums, sweet potatoes,  zucchini, cucumbers, tomatoes, wheat, rice, nuts, seeds, sweets and candies, allergy-causing foods, and cold foods.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: What Are Doshas?
Healing QA: Are There Really Cures For Everything?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

L-carnitine also acts as an antioxidant, helping the body fight harmful molecules called free radicals, which damage your cell’s DNA. Free radicals have been linked to premature aging and cancer. As an antioxidant, L-carnitine is used for conditions of the heart and blood vessels such as heart-related chest pain, congestive heart failure (CHF), diphtheria, heart attack, etc. L-carnitine is also used for fatigue or to boost athletic performance.

A brief Overview

L-Carnitine can simply be referred as carnitine. It is a form of amino acid, which is naturally produced and stored in the body. The liver and kidneys are the organs that manufacture this substance. Storage occurs in the skeletal muscles, heart, brain, and sperm.

Normally, the body can make all the carnitine it needs. Some people may have a deficiency because the body may not be able to transport carnitine into the tissues. There are also some health conditions that can result from low levels of carnitine, including angina and leg cramping (medically known as intermittent claudication).

Because of its role in breaking down fat and building muscle mass, L-carnitine is also recommended for strict vegetarians, dieters, and low-weight or premature infants.

Active Reagents in L-Carnitine

The biological active reagent in carnitine is L-carnitine. L-Carnitine is responsible for transporting fat to the mitochondria for oxidation in our cells. Oxidation is the process of breaking down fats to obtain usable energy. By boosting muscle metabolism, and aiding the mitochondria in breaking down fats, L-carnitine has become known as a heart protector.

Carnitine is an antioxidant. An antioxidant is a molecule capable of inhibiting the oxidation of other molecules. As an antioxidant, L-carnitine fights harmful particles in the body known as free radicals, which damage cells and tamper with DNA.

Benefits of L-Carnitine

• Increasing red blood cells -  The kidney manufactures red blood cells.  People suffering from kidney disorders have a low number of red blood cells. It has been proven that L-carnitine can be used to bolster red blood cell counts in people with kidney disease.
• Improving low birth weight: - Infants born prematurely receive more benefit from the nutrition they get in the hospital when they are also given L-carnitine by mouth or intravenously.
• Weight Loss - L-carnitine is widely used as a weight loss supplement. It helps increase your muscle mass, which boosts your metabolism, encouraging weight loss. And more muscle burns more calories, as you need four to five times more calories to build muscle tissue than maintaining fat tissue. Several studies show that oral carnitine may reduce fat mass in the body. It has also been shown that L-Carnitine improves lean muscle strength. However, some doctors and dieticians disagree with its efficacy as a weight loss supplement citing studies that show that it works no better than a placebo. 
• Removal of fats - L-Carnitine also helps remove fats waste products (ketones) from the blood stream. It helps to discourage fatty build up in the liver, heart, and skeletal muscle.
• Treatment and prevention of L-carnitine deficiency -  L-carnitine deficiency can have a number of causes; failure of the body to manufacture enough carnitine, the body not being able to transport carnitine to the tissues, and certain diseases and some medical procedures. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved L-carnitine for treating and preventing L-carnitine deficiency. 

Remedies

• Angina - Several studies indicate that carnitine can be used as a complementary treatment for moderate angina. Clinical trials have shown that L-carnitine and propionyl-L-carnitine can help reduce symptoms of angina. Carnitine has also been seen to improve the ability of people with angina to exercise without chest pain. However, do not self medicate angina with carnitine. See your doctor for diagnosis and conventional treatment. You should only take carnitine under your health care provider's supervision.
• Heart attack Risk - A few studies have found that carnitine may help when used with conventional medicines after a heart attack. It is suggested, by some small studies, that people who take L-carnitine supplements soon after a heart attack may be less likely to have another heart attack. They are also less likely to die of heart disease, have chest pain, abnormal heart rhythms, or develop heart failure. Treatment with oral carnitine may also improve muscle weakness. Carnitine supplements should be used along with conventional medication under the supervision of your health care.
• Heart failure - People with heart failure have limited ability to exercise, lacking in energy and quickly becoming breathless. A few studies have suggested that L-carnitine supplements can help reduce symptoms of heart failure and improve the ability to exercise properly in people with heart failure. However further studies are needed for confirmation.
• Leg Cramping and peripheral vascular disease - Atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries is a disorder that leads to decreased blood flow to the legs. This condition often causes an aching or cramping pain in the legs while walking or exercising. This pain is called intermittent claudication, and the reduced blood flow to the legs is called peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Several studies have shown that carnitine supplements can help reduce symptom of atherosclerosis and increase the distance that people with intermittent claudication (leg cramping) can walk.
• Erectile Dysfunction - Preliminary studies have suggested that propionyl-L-carnitine may help improve male sexual function. One health study found that carnitine supplements improved the effectiveness of sidenafil (Viagra) in men with diabetes who had not previously responded to Viagra. Additionally, another study showed that, a combination of propionyl-L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine improved the effectiveness of Viagra in men who had erectile dysfunction after prostate surgery.

Naturopathic doctors use carnitine for several other conditions including diabetic neuropathy, Alzheimer's Disease and Memory Impairment, Kidney Disease and Dialysis, Male infertility, Peyronie's Disease, Hyperthyroidism etc. While there is anecdotal evidence to support these uses, more research is needed to scientifically establish its efficacy for these conditions.

Side Effects

• Under-active thyroid (hypothyroidism) - The use of L-carnitine might make symptoms of hypothyroidism worse.
• Seizures - The use of L-carnitine seems to make seizures more likely in people who have had seizures before. If you have had a seizure, you are advised not to use L-carnitine.
• Diarrhea - High doses (5 or more grams per day) of carnitine may cause diarrhea.
• Increased appetite - Some users of carnitine may experience increased appetite.
• Body odor - Carnitine supplements can also cause the urine, breath, and sweat to have a “fishy” odor.
• Nausea - Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset and heartburn may also be experienced. Some people who use carnitine may get a rash on their bodies. This is a rare side effect, more likely in those taking high doses.

Carnitine is an important substance in the human body. Its key use is in helping to break down fat, and convert it to energy through oxidation. Carnitine is most commonly used for weight loss. It helps increase your muscle mass, which boosts your metabolism, encouraging weight loss. And more muscle burns more calories, as you need four to five times more calories to build muscle tissue than maintaining fat tissue. Carnitine is also an antioxidant. However, there are side effects from this substance, so it’s best to consult with a health care professional before taking carnitine.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Q10 Helps With Blood-Pressure
Ideas For Heart Health

Q:

Where are you from? What's your favorite place to travel to overseas? And what's your favorite place in America?

A:

I was born in Iran to an Iranian father and an English mother.  I moved to England at the time of the Iranian Revolution, and haven’t been back since.  My favorite place to travel to is India, so much so that when I go there it’s almost like I’ve come home—perhaps one day that will literally be the case should I ever decide to move there.  Right now, I live in Los Angeles, as I find it’s a good place to be able to get everything done that I’m working on (like my show with Veria) but still have access to nature.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: What Is Your Typical Ayurvedic Daily Routine?
Healing QA: Why Leave a Great Career to Start Practicing Ayurveda?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

Bigger is not better!

An enlarged prostate is the growth of the prostate gland. The prostate gland is involved in the production of semen and reproductive function in men. The prostate wraps around urethra which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder out through the tip of the penis.

The prostate grows as a man matures. During puberty, the prostate doubles in size. At about age 25, the prostate gland grows again, and this can lead to an enlarged prostate as a man enters his 40s. An enlarged prostate is also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is generally not caused by infection or cancer.

As the prostate grows larger, it may press on the urethra. This causes the urethra to narrow. Narrowing of the urethra can cause some men with prostate enlargement to have trouble with urination. Prostate enlargement is one of the most common health problems in men older than 60 years of age.

Causes

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is a medical terminology for a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It is which is particularly common in older men.  An estimated 50% of men have histologic evidence of BPH by age 50 years and by 80 years, 75%. Doctors aren’t sure what causes it. It may be due to the changing balance of sex hormones as men grow older.

Signs and Symptoms

Most men with an enlarged prostate don’t exhibit any symptoms. However, where enlarged prostate symptoms are present they may include the following:

1. Problems urinating: As the prostate grows, it creates an enlargement that puts pressure on the urethra. As the urethra narrows, the bladder has to contract more forcefully to push urine through the body. Problems associated with urinating include the following:
• An inability to urinate at all.
• Difficulty controlling urine flow.
• Frequent urination.
• A weak or intermittent flow of urine.
• Pain or a burning sensation when urinating.
2. Problems Achieving or Maintaining an Erection: It has been argued that an enlarged prostate may cause problems of achieving or maintaining an erection.
3. Blood in the Urine or Semen: If you see some blood spots in your urine then you may have an enlarged prostate.
4. Pain in the Lower Back, Upper Thigh or Hips: Men with enlarged prostate condition may feel pain in the lower back, upper thigh or hips.

When the bladder does not empty completely, you become at risk for developing urinary tract infections. Other serious problems can also develop over time, including bladder stones, blood in the urine, incontinence, and acute urinary retention (an inability to urinate). If you can’t pee at all: you should see your doctor immediately -- a sudden and complete inability to urinate is a medical emergency.  In rare cases, bladder and/or kidney damage can develop from BPH.

Treatment Options

1. Watchful waiting: This is the conservative and often best program of care. For many men, symptoms can lessen over time without treatment. On the other hand, medications should be started early for moderate symptoms. Also, if there are complications or if symptoms are severe, your doctor may recommend surgery. For most men, the decision to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate is based on the patient's desire to improve his quality of life.
2. Self Care: If you have an enlarged prostate, there are a number of things that you can do to lessen the symptoms or prevent them from worsening.
• Try and cut down on alcohol and caffeine. These can encourage you to urinate and irritate the bladder.
• Don't drink a lot of fluid all at once. Spread out fluids throughout the day. Avoid drinking fluids within 2 hours of bedtime.
• Try not to take over-the-counter cold and sinus medications that contain decongestants or antihistamines. These medications can increase BPH symptoms.
• Keep warm and exercise regularly. Cold weather and lack of physical activity may worsen symptoms.
• Learn and practice Kegel exercises (pelvic strengthening exercises – the same that are used with pregnant women). They strengthen the muscles that support the bladder.
• Reduce stress. Nervousness and tension can lead to more frequent urination.
3. Several studies have found that cranberry juice may be helpful in the prevention of urinary tract infections.
4. Medication: Alpha 1-blockers (doxazosin, prazosin, tamsulosin, terazosin, and alfuzosin) are a class of medications used to treat enlarged prostate. These medications relax the muscles of the bladder neck and prostate. This allows easier urination. Most people treated with alpha 1-blocker medication find that it helps their symptoms.
5. Finasteride and dutasteride lower levels of hormones produced by the prostate reduce the size of the prostate gland, increase urine flow rate, and decrease symptoms of BPH. It may take 3 to 6 months before you notice much improvement in your symptoms. However, finasteride and dutasteride have potential side effects related to their use. These effects include decreased sex drive and impotence.
6. More recent studies have indicated that the best results involve a combination of an alpha blocker and a drug to shrink the prostate.
7. Surgery: Prostate surgery may be recommended if you have the following conditions:
• Incontinence
• Recurrent blood in the urine
• Inability to fully empty the bladder (urinary retention)
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Kidney failure
• Bladder stones

Your doctor will determine the specific surgical procedure based on the severity of your symptoms and the size and shape of your prostate gland.

Alternative Treatments

1. Saw Palmetto: Saw palmetto is a herbal cure that has been used by millions of men to ease BPH symptoms and is often recommended as an alternative to prescription medication. Some studies have shown that it helps with symptoms, but others have found that this popular herb is no better than a placebo in relieving the symptoms of BPH.
2. Stinging Nettle Extract: Made from the extract of the stinging nettle, studies in people suggest that stinging nettle, in combination with other herbs (especially saw palmetto), may be effective at relieving symptoms, such as reduced urinary flow, incomplete emptying of the bladder, and the constant urge to urinate.
3. Pygeum:  this herb is made from the oil of an African prune tree. Several studies show that pygeum can significantly reduce the amount of times the person wakes up in the night to urinate, and lessen any pain with urination in men who suffer from mild-to-moderate BPH symptoms.

Prostate enlargement is a natural part of aging for men. As the gland grows, it can press on the urethra and cause urination and bladder problems. Prostate enlargement is not a serious condition, but it can cause complications such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, bladder damage, kidney damage, which can be serious problems. Fortunately, there are a number of treatments for prostatitis, both prescription medicines and alternative remedies.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Can Men Have Anorexia?
Prostate Health Formula

Corns might look slightly ugly, but they are not usually a medical problem, unless they ulcerate, which can cause them to become infected. If you have diabetes, you should see a general practitioner about them because you’re more prone to developing infections.

Causes

Corns are basically caused by constant pressure on a bony area of your foot. This can happen for a number of different reasons:

1. Poorly fitting footwear: Shoes that are too small or have uneven soles are the most common cause of corns.
2. Prominent bones: If you have prominent bones these can press against your shoes or press against another toe.
3. Poorly healed fractures: If you have a broken bone that has been set out of place, it can cause your foot to rub against your shoe.

Signs and Symptoms

The main symptoms of corns include:

1. A lump of hard skin over a bony area on your foot.
2. Pain when you walk, sometimes stopping you from doing certain activities.

Hard corns occur on dry, flat surfaces of skin. Soft corns (frequently found between adjacent toes) stay moist, keeping the surrounding skin soft, and have a hard, fibrous center. 

Treatment

In most cases calluses and corns may go away by themselves, once the cause of the irritation is removed. However you may want to remove a corn if you find it ugly or painful.

Corns and calluses can be treated with over-the-counter pharmaceutical products or natural remedies. If you want to buy a product, look for creams, lotions or pads where the active ingredient is salicylic acid, the same ingredient used in over-the-counter wart-removal products. Salicylic acid is a keratolytic, which means it dissolves the protein keratin. It is not recommended for diabetics.

Natural Remedies

1. Foot Soak: Try soaking your feet in warm water for 20-25 minutes. Then apply baby oil to the corns. With the use of a pumice, gently rub off the hardened skin.
2. Garlic: Garlic can also be used to remove the keratin. Cut a clove of garlic into pieces and mash together with salt. Then apply the mixture to a band-aid and keep it this way for three days. Once removed, the dry skin should come off too. 
3. Chamomile tea: Just before you go to bed, boil a cup of strong chamomile tea and dab it on your feet using a towel. Then enclose your feet in a plastic bag or wrap and add a sock to hold everything in place. Leave overnight. The tea will help in softening hard surfaces of your corns and it will be easy to rub off the dry skin with a pumice. 

Your health-care practitioner may also prescribe antibiotics for any corns or calluses that have become infected.

Prevention

It is said “prevention is better than cure” and corns are easier to prevent than to treat.

1. Minimize rubbing: Avoid friction – especially on your hands and feet to prevent a callus. Avoid shoes that are too tight or gloves that rub your hands uncomfortably. Rings that are too tight can also form a callus.
2. Change your footwear: High heeled shoes or slip-ons can cause corns because they either squish your toes or rub against your feet.
3. Pad the potentially affected area:  You can get many sorts of padding at the drugstore:
   • Cushions to put between the toes;
   • Foam or moleskin pads to put over the places where corns form;
   • Foam pads with holes in the center (like donuts or bagels), which redistribute pressure around the corn instead of right over it; and
   • Cushioned insoles to pad your feet and alleviate mechanical pressure.
4. Apply an antifungal or antibacterial powder: If you already have a corn, you should apply an antifungal or antibacterial powder after washing your foot to help prevent it becoming infected.

Corns can be ugly, painful or even become infected. Luckily, they are easily treatable and preventable. While there are many pharmacological cures on the market, natural remedies are available too that may be cheaper and just as effective.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Home Spa: All-Natural Foot Soak
Heel Pain: A Manageable Problem

Q:

Can I keep taking my medication when using Ayurveda?

A:

One of the misconceptions about herbs used in Ayurvedic therapies is that because they are plants and not chemical-based pharmaceuticals, they aren’t very potent.  This is, of course, completely untrue, for while there are herbs used that are valued for their gentle nature, there are also some that when taken in improper combinations can undermine one’s health.  While it is certainly possible for you to continue taking certain forms of medication while also pursuing an Ayurvedic regimen, it is of tremendous importance that you speak to a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner about your medical history and current routine before implementing anything in your lifestyle.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: How To Handle Many Ailments?
Healing QA: Are There Really Cures For Everything?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!

According to research, ancient civilizations used fenugreek seeds for their health benefits and to increase milk production. The seeds, also known as Bird’s foot, Trigonella, Greek hayseed, Methi, bockshornsame, and Hu Lu Ba, have been discovered in Tel Halal and Tutankhamen’s tomb. They are also been mentioned in Cato the Elder’s writings.

Fenugreek seeds are quite well known in India as a spice. They are commonly used in cooking curries. The taste of fenugreek seeds can be described as bittersweet, powerful, and aromatic, with a slightly bitter aftertaste, like celery. While the taste isn’t well known, for those who have eaten Indian curry, it is widely recognized. Fenugreek is also used in some Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine.

According to research, ancient civilizations used fenugreek seeds for their health benefits and to increase milk production. The seeds, also known as Bird’s foot, Trigonella, Greek hayseed, Methi, bockshornsame, and Hu Lu Ba, have been discovered in Tel Halal and Tutankhamen’s tomb. They are also been mentioned in Cato the Elder’s writings.
 

Why are Fenugreek Seeds Special?

Fenugreek seeds have an abundance of polysaccharide galactomanan. This acts as a food stabilizer but is also the ingredient responsible for the production of more milk in lactating mothers. It has been used to enhance milk production since ancient Egyptian times. One study presented at the International Meeting of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine noted a 40 percent increase in milk production with the use of fenugreek, although more research is needed to validate these scientific claims.

Fenugreek seeds have also been tested on people with diabetes, and the studies show that the seeds can ameliorate some of the diabetic symptoms as it makes the body more glucose tolerant.

Fenugreek seeds can also be used as a laxative, a digestive aid, or to lower cholesterol and others. Veria’s MD approved article is a scientific guide to distinguish between those health claims that are clinically proven, those that are false, and those that require further testing and evidence. 

Benefits

As an ancient seed, fenugreek has a number of health properties:

1. Constipation: fenugreek seeds can help with constipation. Fenugreek seeds can act as a laxative and aid in softening the body’s wastes for easier elimination.

2. Diabetes: People with diabetes, both Type 1 and 2, can benefit from fenugreek seeds as they can help lower the blood sugar levels. Diabetics using the seeds should monitor their blood sugars closely and consult with their doctor.

3. Cholesterol levels: A few limited studies suggest that people taking fenugreek seeds may lower cholesterol. You can sprinkle fenugreek seeds on your food, or you could make into a tea, sieve and drink with honey, either hot or cold.  

4. Impotency: According to studies, fenugreek seeds contain saponins and phytochemicals that can stimulate the production of sex hormones and normalize depressed levels of testosterone.

5. Anemia: Fenugreek seeds can help in formation of blood cells, good for people with anemia. 

6. Hair strengthener: Herbalists use fenugreek seeds to strengthen the hair. Fenugreek contains a large amount of lecithin which is a natural emollient and moisturizer. For hair, fenugreek seeds may be made into a tea, and drunk, or soaked into coconut oil overnight. Once sieved, the oil can be applied to the hair and left for 10-15 minutes before rinsing out. 

7. Skin problems: Fenugreek seeds can help in treating skin diseases when applied topically. As a natural demulcent, it can treat pimples, acne, rashes, and eczema. To apply to the skin, grind the seed into powder and mix it with water. Get a clean cloth and dampen a part of it. Gently apply the dampened poultice to the inflamed skin for analgesic relief. 

8. Heartburn and hyper-acidity: fenugreek seeds may help in relieving gastrointestinal inflammations like acid reflux and heartburn, according to a 2011 pilot study published Phytotherapy Research. Just swallow a fenugreek supplement with juice or water 30 minutes before every meal.

Side effects

Fenugreek seeds are a natural herb that is considered good for the body. However, there are some people that experience side effects when using this herb.

1. Uterine Contractions: Pregnant mothers should not use fenugreek seeds. Fenugreek seeds can cause uterine contractions and induce early labor.

2. Bowel Problems: Some people experience diarrhea and gas from using fenugreek seeds and supplements.

3. Drug Interactions: Fenugreek seeds can inhibit the effectiveness of certain medications, especially diabetic medications and blood thinners. If taking any prescription medication, talk to your doctor before taking fenugreek seeds. 

4. Urine Color: Taking fenugreek seeds can sometimes change the color and odor of a person’s urine, and it may look like maple syrup.

5. Hemorrhage: While the evidence is limited, fenugreek seeds could cause internal bleeding. If you see your stool has a reddish color, or you see blood in your stool, it may be a sign of intestinal bleeding. If you are vomiting blood, it is a sign of gastric bleeding, and you should  discontinue ingesting fenugreek seeds, and call a doctor.

6. Allergies: Some people may have natural allergies to this herb. If you feel nauseated, itching skin, rashes, or trouble breathing after ingesting fenugreek seeds, refrain from using the herb. 

Fenugreek seeds are an aromatic spice widely used in Indian, Eritrean and Ethiopian foods, and one that gives flavor to curries. It can be added to food, drunk as a tea, applied as a poultice for skin irritations or soaked in coconut oil and used on your hair. For those who don’t enjoy its distinctive taste, fenugreek can be purchased in tablet and capsule form. Fenugreek seeds have been for their health benefits for centuries. Today, scientific studies have provided evidence for the veracity of some of these claims.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Curry Spice Mix
Holistic Approach: Cumin A Cleansing Spice

Q:

Why is Ghee one of the 5 things you can't live without, and is it true you put some in your nose when traveling on planes?

A:

Ghee makes the world go round. Those of us in the West have always heard how butter isn’t good for us, is filled with saturated fat, and when used in excess can lead to things like heart disease and high blood pressure. But the ancient Indians realized that when you burn off the moisture in butter, you rid it of the very parts that make it so difficult to digest. What we’re left with is the pure fat of the butter, which we call ghee. In Western terms, burning off the moisture in butter converts its long-chain fatty acids to short-chain fatty acids, and this conversion allows for all that we consume to be digested and used by the body.

Ghee serves as a way to nourish and moisturize the body much like natural oils like olive oil and sesame oil do. It is generally balancing, so if you have too much heat, too much dryness, or even too much moisture (mucus) in your body, taking ghee will help to regulate digestion so that any of those imbalances will become less severe. Ghee even works as a way to moisturize dry skin, and when treated in a certain way and infused with herbs, it can be used to nourish the eyes, the ears, and other orifices of the body. And yes, I do indeed put some in my nose when traveling on planes, as the nourishing and moisturizing effects of ghee help to reverse the dryness that takes place when I breathe in the recycled air on the plane.

In short, ghee is one of the five things I can’t live without because it’s something that none of us can live without. At least, we can’t live without it if we plan to live well.

Check Out Our Related Content:
Healing Q&A Library
Healing QA: How Do You Decide What To Eat For Dinner?
Healing QA: Tips for Reducing High LDL & Cholesterol?
Find Out What Dosha You Are. Take our Dosha Quiz!
The Incurables: healing stories that defy all odds!