Have you watched Sicko already? It is very worth doing so.
In order to help put the health problem we are living in better perspective, let me share now some of the insights and advice that Bill Clinton gave us in San Francisco recently at the Healthetc event sponsored by California Pacific Medical Center and KCBS.
Some of the speech highlights:
1) Clinton's great overview of key comparative data:
* 16 vs 10-11: % GDP spent on health care in the US vs. other industrialized countries. This percentage difference equals around $800 billion annually!
* 84 vs 100: % population with some form of health insurance in the US vs. other countries
* 34 and 37: ranking of the US system as measured by health outcomes and life expectancy, respectively
* 34 vs 19: % health care costs spent on administration in the US vs. other countries
2) President Clinton then outlined the 3 main problems with US Healthcare as follows, empathizing that any serious, long-term solution needs to address these 3 elements as a whole:
* immoral unequal coverage, where a large percentage of citizens lack access to quality care
* inefficient system: we pay more for less, as you could see in Sicko
* we still focus more on disease than on health. But he is hopeful about an increasing focus on wellness, absolutely necessary to alleviate future cost pressures
3) Now, let's reflect on couple of (approximate) quotes with profound wisdom
* "I am a testimonial for the best of American medicine. Given my heart problems, it is a miracle I am here with you today. These days I cannot stay more than 5 minutes in a bad mood, because I remind myself how fortunate I am simply to be alive"
* (when people were clapping and cheering to easy "sound bites" while he was still trying to make a complex point) "Please stop. I don't want you to boo or cheer, simply to think on your own"
Amazing words.
In the afternoon, after his speech, we spent some time talking with health providers and attending some panels, such as the one put together by the Alzheimer's Association on ways to prevent or delay Alzheimer's.
We were surprised at the amount of education still needed to make the medical and health community incorporate science-based advice on lifelong learning and mental stimulation on top of "traditional" advice around nutrition and physical exercise. The Alzheimer's Association is being one of the pioneers with their "Maintain Your Brain" campaign, suggesting a comprehensive set of health and wellness guidelines we should all follow:
1) Stay mentally active: "Mentally stimulating activities strengthen brain cells and the connections between them, and may even create new nerve cells."
2) Remain socially active: "Social activity not only makes physical and mental activity more enjoyable, it can reduce stress levels, which helps maintain healthy connections among brain cells"
3) Stay physically active: "Physical exercise is essential for maintaining good blood flow to the brain as well as to encourage new brain cells. It also can significantly reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke and diabetes, and thereby protect against those risk factors for Alzheimer's and other dementias."
4) Adopt a brain-healthy diet: "Research suggests that high cholesterol may contribute to stroke and brain cell damage. A low fat, low cholesterol diet is advisable. And there is growing evidence that a diet rich in dark vegetables and fruits, which contain antioxidants, may help protect brain cells."
No doubt, Bill Clinton would agree with the importance of these guidelines to ensure Baby Boomers can age in a healthy way and prevent the health care system from being overwhelmed with Alzheimer's related costs.
Let's watch with attention what the presidential candidates propose to deal with this situation.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
The Pillars of Mind Body Wellness
Wellness is not merely the opposite of being sick. However, when you say “I’m not feeling well,” you probably don’t mean that you’re lacking in your personal relationships, concern for the environment, or passion for your vocation. Instead, for the most part, people conceptualize “not feeling well” as a physical ailment.
By contrast, the term wellness as used in the field of alternative medicine encompasses much more than physical health. Certainly, physical health is part of achieving wellness, but it’s one of only several components that we’ll touch on below.
In essence, wellness means reaching your full potential as a person. Wellness is an all-encompassing term that refers to optimal states of emotional, physical, and mental well-being. You are striving for oneness of your mind and body.
In many ways, you are probably already participating in activities that contribute to wellness. You might exercise, recycle, or read on a regular basis. Each of these activities is encouraged in the pursuit of wellness. The difference, though, is that you’re not performing these activities as part of a conscious plan to be your optimal self.
Conscious awareness is the cornerstone of wellness. Wellness is a decision we make, and we take personal responsibility for achieving it. The aspect of personal responsibility is apparent in the National Wellness Institute’s definition of wellness: wellness is an active process through which people become aware of, and make choices towards, a more successful existence.
No one hands us wellness on a silver platter. Besides, you wouldn’t want them to. The journey is just as important, and enjoyable, as the destination.
One reason to seek wellness in your life is that it reduces, or even eliminates, the need to rely on drugs, prescriptions, or alcohol to find physical well-being or what we might believe to be “happiness.” When we seek wellness, we also find that we are less likely to blame others or make excuses for our problems. You come to learn that health and happiness are solely your responsibility. Taking on personal responsibility is actually quite empowering.
As mentioned above, wellness is achieved by balancing each of these six types of wellness:
Intellectual Emotional Spiritual Environmental Social Physical Others feel that wellness is actually made of 8 parts. In addition to the 6 components listed above, they add vocational and cultural wellness. When you focus on improving on each of these areas, you'll find that you're developing personal qualities that you've probably been seeking your whole life: Good sense of humor Loving and nurturing nature Concern for the environment Ability to communicate effectively Purpose-driven Strong ability to cope with the ups and downs of life Excellent physical health Fun-loving Free of addictive behaviors and dependence on substances
Remember, wellness is a choice. The first step towards wellness is simple and you can take it right. Say to yourself, “I choose to be well.” Base your daily and long-term decisions on this goal and watch yourself reaping the rewards of balance, happiness, and good health.
By contrast, the term wellness as used in the field of alternative medicine encompasses much more than physical health. Certainly, physical health is part of achieving wellness, but it’s one of only several components that we’ll touch on below.
In essence, wellness means reaching your full potential as a person. Wellness is an all-encompassing term that refers to optimal states of emotional, physical, and mental well-being. You are striving for oneness of your mind and body.
In many ways, you are probably already participating in activities that contribute to wellness. You might exercise, recycle, or read on a regular basis. Each of these activities is encouraged in the pursuit of wellness. The difference, though, is that you’re not performing these activities as part of a conscious plan to be your optimal self.
Conscious awareness is the cornerstone of wellness. Wellness is a decision we make, and we take personal responsibility for achieving it. The aspect of personal responsibility is apparent in the National Wellness Institute’s definition of wellness: wellness is an active process through which people become aware of, and make choices towards, a more successful existence.
No one hands us wellness on a silver platter. Besides, you wouldn’t want them to. The journey is just as important, and enjoyable, as the destination.
One reason to seek wellness in your life is that it reduces, or even eliminates, the need to rely on drugs, prescriptions, or alcohol to find physical well-being or what we might believe to be “happiness.” When we seek wellness, we also find that we are less likely to blame others or make excuses for our problems. You come to learn that health and happiness are solely your responsibility. Taking on personal responsibility is actually quite empowering.
As mentioned above, wellness is achieved by balancing each of these six types of wellness:
Intellectual Emotional Spiritual Environmental Social Physical Others feel that wellness is actually made of 8 parts. In addition to the 6 components listed above, they add vocational and cultural wellness. When you focus on improving on each of these areas, you'll find that you're developing personal qualities that you've probably been seeking your whole life: Good sense of humor Loving and nurturing nature Concern for the environment Ability to communicate effectively Purpose-driven Strong ability to cope with the ups and downs of life Excellent physical health Fun-loving Free of addictive behaviors and dependence on substances
Remember, wellness is a choice. The first step towards wellness is simple and you can take it right. Say to yourself, “I choose to be well.” Base your daily and long-term decisions on this goal and watch yourself reaping the rewards of balance, happiness, and good health.
Who Said Health and Wellness is Unimportant?
Wealth and greenbacks making comes as a aftereffect of natural sureness in oneself, ones expertise, and being able to uncover the secret to hit that lies deep within at a granular level. Everyone is appreciative of the law of attraction, however in most cases people are not cognizant of how to fully interact with their inner most sub-conscious thoughts. Through the process of self help and self improvement in line with belief, one can truly unlock their hidden capacity.
The appearance of passion for achievement is only natural among humans, and one which we should look towards in a conclusive way. Through the process of affirmation one can improve their capability to realize whatever they prefer to manage in abundance. The process of rarefied healing, followed by spiritual progress is an on-going cycle, and one which everybody should interact with in order to manage success in prefer, life and in the creation of substance.
Daily affirmation is needed in order to further grow your mind, your capabilities, your power and your inner most strength and relationship with your sub-conscious. However, how does one leverage their cutting-edge found absolute affirmation to their advantage as a means of continuing the cycle that follows an affirmation enhancer induced advancement? In such an exemplification your chances of hit are increased by a significant percentage compared to others however, that does not mean that your job stops there.
1. Set Goals
Without setting crystal clear goals on which to model your gravy train and aim towards, it is hard to ever unlock your ability that you have unveiled through the process of affirmation. In order to establish an abundance of wherewithal for yourself, you will have to select the level on which you wish to scale your abundance creation and when it is time to surmise you have made enough bankroll.
2. Form Moral Boundaries
Moral boundaries are the rules by which you will follow during your affluence creation phases. Your goals are the final deliverables you will accomplish, however without moral boundaries; it is hard to know the methodology under which you will achieve what you aim to. Affirmation and immaterial guidance will a helping hand to guide you through the pass of remaining true to your values and your ethical code.
3. Respect
Maintaining a level of respect towards your loved ones and peers will provide additional impetuous support in achieving your goals, however it is far from the primary motivator that will drive you to big hit. Without keeping a level of respect for others, otherworldly growth will stutter through delusional strategic aims.
4. Thwart the Exhibition of Opposition
The only way to perfect this is with affirmation, energy and courage. All of which are the characteristics of a advantageous person, which can be given an injection by affirmation enhancement.
5. Interact on a Deeper Level
Your heart, your body, your head and your soul cannot live as separate entities in your quest for big hit. An integration of those and a feeling of their dynamic relationship will be one of the critical elements of your big hit.
The appearance of passion for achievement is only natural among humans, and one which we should look towards in a conclusive way. Through the process of affirmation one can improve their capability to realize whatever they prefer to manage in abundance. The process of rarefied healing, followed by spiritual progress is an on-going cycle, and one which everybody should interact with in order to manage success in prefer, life and in the creation of substance.
Daily affirmation is needed in order to further grow your mind, your capabilities, your power and your inner most strength and relationship with your sub-conscious. However, how does one leverage their cutting-edge found absolute affirmation to their advantage as a means of continuing the cycle that follows an affirmation enhancer induced advancement? In such an exemplification your chances of hit are increased by a significant percentage compared to others however, that does not mean that your job stops there.
1. Set Goals
Without setting crystal clear goals on which to model your gravy train and aim towards, it is hard to ever unlock your ability that you have unveiled through the process of affirmation. In order to establish an abundance of wherewithal for yourself, you will have to select the level on which you wish to scale your abundance creation and when it is time to surmise you have made enough bankroll.
2. Form Moral Boundaries
Moral boundaries are the rules by which you will follow during your affluence creation phases. Your goals are the final deliverables you will accomplish, however without moral boundaries; it is hard to know the methodology under which you will achieve what you aim to. Affirmation and immaterial guidance will a helping hand to guide you through the pass of remaining true to your values and your ethical code.
3. Respect
Maintaining a level of respect towards your loved ones and peers will provide additional impetuous support in achieving your goals, however it is far from the primary motivator that will drive you to big hit. Without keeping a level of respect for others, otherworldly growth will stutter through delusional strategic aims.
4. Thwart the Exhibition of Opposition
The only way to perfect this is with affirmation, energy and courage. All of which are the characteristics of a advantageous person, which can be given an injection by affirmation enhancement.
5. Interact on a Deeper Level
Your heart, your body, your head and your soul cannot live as separate entities in your quest for big hit. An integration of those and a feeling of their dynamic relationship will be one of the critical elements of your big hit.
4 Secrets for Beauty & Wellness
4 Secrets for Beauty & Wellness: Learn basic tips that “really” work to look and feel your best
Invest in Self-Care
No amount of expensive beauty products can hide fatigue, stress, unresolved drama and suppressed anger. Look in the mirror, declare that “I am worthy of uninterrupted time, to nurture my body, mind & soul” Create a dates for relaxing facials, perfect pedicures, serene baths, exciting makeovers, and tranquil massages.
Maintain Healthy Hair
Healthy hair looks more attractive, it provides more styling options, and enhances your natural beauty. Once a month massage a plant-based oil into your scalp and hair, after shampooing. For additional aromatherapy benefits, try Indigofera’s Jojoba Hair Oil. Then, sit under a hooded dryer or bask in the sun for 30 mins. Rinse hair, dry and style as usual.
Learn to apply a “minimalist” look
Every woman can enhance her look with basics like bronzer, mascara and lip- gloss. Neutral shades and sheer color on lips can work for the office, cocktails or romantic evenings. Experiment with creating your look ahead of time.
Tip: well-shaped brows make a real difference in your appearance.
Keep your smile white naturally
You deserve a beautiful smile. Before you spend a fortune on whitening kits or procedures, try this: Make a paste with baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and a drop of peppermint essential oil. Brush teeth thoroughly, **do not swallow and rinse well. Repeat daily for one month and observe a remarkable improvement.
“Be Radiantly Beautiful…..”
©2006 Chanelle Washington, Indigofera
For more tips sign up for our newsletter.
Invest in Self-Care
No amount of expensive beauty products can hide fatigue, stress, unresolved drama and suppressed anger. Look in the mirror, declare that “I am worthy of uninterrupted time, to nurture my body, mind & soul” Create a dates for relaxing facials, perfect pedicures, serene baths, exciting makeovers, and tranquil massages.
Maintain Healthy Hair
Healthy hair looks more attractive, it provides more styling options, and enhances your natural beauty. Once a month massage a plant-based oil into your scalp and hair, after shampooing. For additional aromatherapy benefits, try Indigofera’s Jojoba Hair Oil. Then, sit under a hooded dryer or bask in the sun for 30 mins. Rinse hair, dry and style as usual.
Learn to apply a “minimalist” look
Every woman can enhance her look with basics like bronzer, mascara and lip- gloss. Neutral shades and sheer color on lips can work for the office, cocktails or romantic evenings. Experiment with creating your look ahead of time.
Tip: well-shaped brows make a real difference in your appearance.
Keep your smile white naturally
You deserve a beautiful smile. Before you spend a fortune on whitening kits or procedures, try this: Make a paste with baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and a drop of peppermint essential oil. Brush teeth thoroughly, **do not swallow and rinse well. Repeat daily for one month and observe a remarkable improvement.
“Be Radiantly Beautiful…..”
©2006 Chanelle Washington, Indigofera
For more tips sign up for our newsletter.
Noni - Tips For Optimal Health, Weight Loss, And Wellness
Mother says, “A Noni a day, will keep the doctor away.”
Hi, my name is John, and I want to let you know the truth about Noni - also known in the world of plants as morinda citrifolia. I am qualified to share Noni with you, not only because I am a youthful looking, handsome, and sexy guy, but also because I have a Noni plant growing in my back yard.
Yes, right here behind my house in the Philippines, and many of my neighbor’s yards have noni plants also. The black volcanic soil here is excellent for growing the noni plants. My wife went outside this afternoon and picked a small basket of fresh Noni fruit for me for later today. Lucky me!!!
When I drink the noni fruit juice, I like to mix it with a little pineapple juice and 7-Up to make the taste easier to swallow. The seeds are very spicy - like hot peppers -- and burn my tongue when I suck on them to get loose the flesh of the fruit.
Was I surprised … The very first time I ate some of the fresh Noni fruit and drank the juice it had an immediate effect on my health. The very next day, I noticed that my back pains had vanished - gone away - and stayed away, as long as I consumed Noni fruit and juice every day. I have had lower back pains for over 40 years. Chiropractors helped, but the pain still did not go away.
Guess what - the cravings I had always had for snacks, junk foods, and sweets disappeared the very next day after taking Noni. I was definitely eating too much and gaining weight. After using Noni, my weight loss problems are gone.
I know - this is all only anecdotal evidence, and not based on any scientific study involving my use of Noni - but I am convinced of the benefits of using Noni. For me - it helps tremendously in making me feel better. It has cleared up a lot of medical and health problems that previously were dogging me.
This all started about 20 years ago. The noni fruit that I have eaten for many years has helped me feel healthier, look younger, lose weight, given me youthful skin, with fewer aches and pains of old age. You might call me a “health nut” because of all the health information I am constantly digesting about alternative medicine, vitamins, supplements, minerals, antioxidants, folk medicine, herbals, and so forth.
My body is over 60 years old, but most folks think I am in my late 40’s. My youthful looks are likely due to the various herbs, vitamins, and supplements, including noni, that I take every day. I have been a serious “health nut” for about 20+ years now. My studies, research, and use of herbal products have convinced me of the tremendous health value and benefits of herbs in my diet. I have seen my own health and well being improved, sometimes slowly, but always surely. Try Noni yourself - you will see positive changes in your body.
A physician trained at Johns Hopkins studied the affects of Noni on 25,000 Noni juice drinkers and found very positive effects for 29 health conditions in their lives. What can Noni do for you?
Try it for yourself, and see the changes in your body. Imagine feeling good again, looking younger, smoother and softer skin, improved digestion, fewer aches and pains, feeling healthier, lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar levels, strengthen your body’s natural ability to fight tumors, viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections, having more energy, feeling more alert, more energetic, and more balanced. What more could you ask for!
Research studies suggest that the compounds found in Noni may work at the cellular level in the human body to help abnormally functioning cells resume normal function and help normal cells maintain regular function.
There are several theories that may explain why Noni works so very beneficially in the body. Some believe it is a selection of polysaccharides, giving Noni fruit its beneficial effects. Other theories, based on research study findings, suggest that Noni promotes the production of nitric oxide in the body, which has been shown to strengthen the body’s natural ability to fight tumors, viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections.
A more popular explanation is called the “xeronine system” developed by the forerunner in Noni research, Dr. Ralph Heinicke Ph.D. who teamed up with Dr. Neil Solomon, a medical doctor. The Heinicke-Solomon Theory explains Noni’s wide range of effectiveness in the human body.
The ancient Aryan physicians of India especially valued Noni fruit because it protected the skin from becoming dry and cracked from the sun. My investigation of the published scientific literature on Morinda citrifolia yielded more than 100 articles pertaining to this medicinal Noni plant.
After I started taking Noni, I found that I was more alert, more energetic, more balanced, my skin was glowing more than I could ever recall, my hunger for junk foods was gone, and my digestion was greatly improved. I attributed the benefits of noni to the interaction of the known components along with the unknown components, which perhaps work synergistically with all the other nutrients to give me optimum health.
Researchers have reported that significant reductions in total cholesterol and triglycerides were seen in smokers who drank a product containing juice from the fruit of the noni tree every day for a month.
Here where I live in the Philippines, and elsewhere, natives use Noni for digestive problems such as diarrhea, intestinal worms, nausea, food poisoning; respiratory problems such as congestive cough, dry cough, tuberculosis, cholera, infant chest colds and sore throat; cardiovascular problems, hypertension; inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, abscesses, mastitis, gout and other inflammatory joint conditions. It is a noted analgesic or pain reliever. One of the most common uses of noni has been in the area of skin conditions, being utilized for wounds, ulcers, abscesses, ring worm, boils, cellulitis, swellings, scalp conditions, including lice, and sores. It has been used in the treatment of tumors and broken bones, jaundice and other forms of liver disease, as well as treating asthma and dysentery, hypercholesterolemia, menstrual cramps, gastric ulcers and diabetes.
Hi, my name is John, and I want to let you know the truth about Noni - also known in the world of plants as morinda citrifolia. I am qualified to share Noni with you, not only because I am a youthful looking, handsome, and sexy guy, but also because I have a Noni plant growing in my back yard.
Yes, right here behind my house in the Philippines, and many of my neighbor’s yards have noni plants also. The black volcanic soil here is excellent for growing the noni plants. My wife went outside this afternoon and picked a small basket of fresh Noni fruit for me for later today. Lucky me!!!
When I drink the noni fruit juice, I like to mix it with a little pineapple juice and 7-Up to make the taste easier to swallow. The seeds are very spicy - like hot peppers -- and burn my tongue when I suck on them to get loose the flesh of the fruit.
Was I surprised … The very first time I ate some of the fresh Noni fruit and drank the juice it had an immediate effect on my health. The very next day, I noticed that my back pains had vanished - gone away - and stayed away, as long as I consumed Noni fruit and juice every day. I have had lower back pains for over 40 years. Chiropractors helped, but the pain still did not go away.
Guess what - the cravings I had always had for snacks, junk foods, and sweets disappeared the very next day after taking Noni. I was definitely eating too much and gaining weight. After using Noni, my weight loss problems are gone.
I know - this is all only anecdotal evidence, and not based on any scientific study involving my use of Noni - but I am convinced of the benefits of using Noni. For me - it helps tremendously in making me feel better. It has cleared up a lot of medical and health problems that previously were dogging me.
This all started about 20 years ago. The noni fruit that I have eaten for many years has helped me feel healthier, look younger, lose weight, given me youthful skin, with fewer aches and pains of old age. You might call me a “health nut” because of all the health information I am constantly digesting about alternative medicine, vitamins, supplements, minerals, antioxidants, folk medicine, herbals, and so forth.
My body is over 60 years old, but most folks think I am in my late 40’s. My youthful looks are likely due to the various herbs, vitamins, and supplements, including noni, that I take every day. I have been a serious “health nut” for about 20+ years now. My studies, research, and use of herbal products have convinced me of the tremendous health value and benefits of herbs in my diet. I have seen my own health and well being improved, sometimes slowly, but always surely. Try Noni yourself - you will see positive changes in your body.
A physician trained at Johns Hopkins studied the affects of Noni on 25,000 Noni juice drinkers and found very positive effects for 29 health conditions in their lives. What can Noni do for you?
Try it for yourself, and see the changes in your body. Imagine feeling good again, looking younger, smoother and softer skin, improved digestion, fewer aches and pains, feeling healthier, lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar levels, strengthen your body’s natural ability to fight tumors, viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections, having more energy, feeling more alert, more energetic, and more balanced. What more could you ask for!
Research studies suggest that the compounds found in Noni may work at the cellular level in the human body to help abnormally functioning cells resume normal function and help normal cells maintain regular function.
There are several theories that may explain why Noni works so very beneficially in the body. Some believe it is a selection of polysaccharides, giving Noni fruit its beneficial effects. Other theories, based on research study findings, suggest that Noni promotes the production of nitric oxide in the body, which has been shown to strengthen the body’s natural ability to fight tumors, viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections.
A more popular explanation is called the “xeronine system” developed by the forerunner in Noni research, Dr. Ralph Heinicke Ph.D. who teamed up with Dr. Neil Solomon, a medical doctor. The Heinicke-Solomon Theory explains Noni’s wide range of effectiveness in the human body.
The ancient Aryan physicians of India especially valued Noni fruit because it protected the skin from becoming dry and cracked from the sun. My investigation of the published scientific literature on Morinda citrifolia yielded more than 100 articles pertaining to this medicinal Noni plant.
After I started taking Noni, I found that I was more alert, more energetic, more balanced, my skin was glowing more than I could ever recall, my hunger for junk foods was gone, and my digestion was greatly improved. I attributed the benefits of noni to the interaction of the known components along with the unknown components, which perhaps work synergistically with all the other nutrients to give me optimum health.
Researchers have reported that significant reductions in total cholesterol and triglycerides were seen in smokers who drank a product containing juice from the fruit of the noni tree every day for a month.
Here where I live in the Philippines, and elsewhere, natives use Noni for digestive problems such as diarrhea, intestinal worms, nausea, food poisoning; respiratory problems such as congestive cough, dry cough, tuberculosis, cholera, infant chest colds and sore throat; cardiovascular problems, hypertension; inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, abscesses, mastitis, gout and other inflammatory joint conditions. It is a noted analgesic or pain reliever. One of the most common uses of noni has been in the area of skin conditions, being utilized for wounds, ulcers, abscesses, ring worm, boils, cellulitis, swellings, scalp conditions, including lice, and sores. It has been used in the treatment of tumors and broken bones, jaundice and other forms of liver disease, as well as treating asthma and dysentery, hypercholesterolemia, menstrual cramps, gastric ulcers and diabetes.
Health And Wellness Products - How To Make Your Own
Health and wellness products will mean very different things to different people.
Wellness can be defined as 'the pursuit of a healthy, balanced lifestyle. For the benefit of this article, wellness products are being looked at in the context of 'over the counter drugs, health supplements and health remedies.
While for some people, wellness products might be viewed as an aid to recovery from illness, for others it might be a means of further enhancing some aspect of their current health. The variety of and uses for such products are as numerous as are the the definitions of wellness products or wellness programs, depending of course upon who is promoting them at any given time.
Whatever your reasons for pursuing alternative care health or health and wellness products, a common goal is to achieve optimised health and well-being.
There are powerful media images hailing the benefits and safety of many over the counter drugs, supplements and health and wellness products, every where you turn these days. They have equally strong claims of being the one and only miracle cure or solution for one ailment or another. How accurate are these claims though, and what are the real costs to you in monetary and health risk terms?
Immediately after reading this article, go take a look and do a quick add-up of the total cost of all the health and wellness products you currently have in stock. I'm sure the figure will surprise you just as much as learning about the very real and harmful side effects which can be caused by some of these drugs or supplements that are supposed to be contributing to your overall state of wellness.
You may also be surprised to know that many of the 'over the counter drugs you buy on a regular basis, simply treat the symptoms and not the real health issue. Needless to say, this approach of focusing on the symptom, side-steps the crucial requirement of getting to the root cause of your condition or whatever it is that ails you.
You're most likely to pursue a wellness product either because you are becoming wary of the adverse effects of chemically produced drugs or because you're keen to recover from ill-health and improve a specific health condition. In some instances it might be that you just want to optimise your current state of good health.
While some health and wellness products can be an effective measure toward improving your health, you should note that long-term use of certain over the counter drugs and some supplements can cause you more harm than good, with the long-term implications far outweighing any short-term benefits. You may well find that you are paying far too high a price on the basis of a mere quick fix promise.
For thousands of years, people in lands far and wide have used natural homemade remedies to manage their health conditions and wellness needs, without manufactured health and wellness products, that can be detrimental to health. They have purely relied upon attaining or maintaining health by plants or by other natural means. It could be argued that with the emergence of chemical and pharmacological methods, many forms of this natural means to health and wellness have declined. In fact, even by today's standards, there are many so-called under-developed countries where inhabitants' rely on nothing more than homemade health and wellness products, gained via natural methods of plants or plant-based extracts.
While conventional medicine relies on scientifically backed research to substantiate effectiveness and safety. In contrast, similar cannot be said about some alternative medicines or health and wellness products. There is no such requirement but their promotion as regard effectiveness are deemed sufficient in themselves as support for therapeutic or wellness claims.
Herbal remedies in general are harmless, however, certain claims being made by some health and wellness products promoters, (under the banner of being 'natural') can insinuate their health and wellness products being the exclusive answer to your health condition or wellness questions, thus putting you at great risk. Secondly, how open are they being about what's really inside? You should always consult your physician over any health concerns, as well as discussing with him/her your intention or choice of alternative means for treatment with any health and wellness product or remedy.
Multi-billion-dollar industries have long wealed their power by way of lobbying to gain exemption from FDA regulation. This has been exactly the case, according to the Skeptical Inquirer, who, on commenting on the 'dietary supplement industry, back in 1994, states - "Since then, these products have flooded the market, subject only to the scruples of their manufacturers".
The above point is an important one to note in that, while health and wellness products manufacturers may list ingredients and quantities being used in specific health and wellness products, there has been no real pressure on them to do so, or to do so accurately. Furthermore, neither has there been any watchdog body to ensure they are penalised for this failing.
So, what are the alternatives open to you? Increasingly, more and more people are turning to do-it-yourself health and wellness homemade herbal remedies. The distinct difference being that in making your own health and wellness products, you are in the driving seat. Not only do you have a full awareness of exactly what the ingredients are and the true quantities, but with the appropriate level of guidance from a reputable practitioner, you're more conversant with any health implications, if any.
With the right know-how, you too can draw on the old-fashioned yet effective sources to greatly improve your health. For instance, using naturally prepared herbs, vitamins, minerals and nutritional supplements, essential oils and flower essences to create real healing solutions that deal with particular health conditions rather than just the symptoms.
It is in the interest of a health and wellness product manufacturers to promote their products as being the only option open to you. They don't want you to know about the abundant natural resources and health-giving potent attributes of herbs and home remedies which have been used effectively for thousands of years. You see, these remedies cannot be patented because you can make them yourself and at a fraction of the cost.
Whether your goal is to overcome illness, drugs intolerance, allergies or just to optimise your already good health, with a little know-how, you can start making your own health and wellness products and remedies, using nothing more than the readily available natural resources in your home and garden. Not only will you save your hard earned cash, you also alleviate the risk of serious or harmful additives and side effects.
Are you interested in learning more about how you can treat numerous common ailments without the harsh side effects, using nothing but natural herbs, vitamins and nutrients you prepare yourself at home? For instance, did you know that placing yogurt on your face help to bring water from the deeper layers of your skin to the surface, moisturizing your skin for the rest of the day and hiding wrinkles?
Here are just a few more of the many quick and effective remedies you can learn to make:
1. Natural laxatives
2. Beauty recipes
3. Skin care and cleansing preparations such as acne treatment
4. Herbal shampoos as well as how to treat hair loss,
5. Dermatitis
6. Menstrual Pain and PMS Symptoms
Wellness can be defined as 'the pursuit of a healthy, balanced lifestyle. For the benefit of this article, wellness products are being looked at in the context of 'over the counter drugs, health supplements and health remedies.
While for some people, wellness products might be viewed as an aid to recovery from illness, for others it might be a means of further enhancing some aspect of their current health. The variety of and uses for such products are as numerous as are the the definitions of wellness products or wellness programs, depending of course upon who is promoting them at any given time.
Whatever your reasons for pursuing alternative care health or health and wellness products, a common goal is to achieve optimised health and well-being.
There are powerful media images hailing the benefits and safety of many over the counter drugs, supplements and health and wellness products, every where you turn these days. They have equally strong claims of being the one and only miracle cure or solution for one ailment or another. How accurate are these claims though, and what are the real costs to you in monetary and health risk terms?
Immediately after reading this article, go take a look and do a quick add-up of the total cost of all the health and wellness products you currently have in stock. I'm sure the figure will surprise you just as much as learning about the very real and harmful side effects which can be caused by some of these drugs or supplements that are supposed to be contributing to your overall state of wellness.
You may also be surprised to know that many of the 'over the counter drugs you buy on a regular basis, simply treat the symptoms and not the real health issue. Needless to say, this approach of focusing on the symptom, side-steps the crucial requirement of getting to the root cause of your condition or whatever it is that ails you.
You're most likely to pursue a wellness product either because you are becoming wary of the adverse effects of chemically produced drugs or because you're keen to recover from ill-health and improve a specific health condition. In some instances it might be that you just want to optimise your current state of good health.
While some health and wellness products can be an effective measure toward improving your health, you should note that long-term use of certain over the counter drugs and some supplements can cause you more harm than good, with the long-term implications far outweighing any short-term benefits. You may well find that you are paying far too high a price on the basis of a mere quick fix promise.
For thousands of years, people in lands far and wide have used natural homemade remedies to manage their health conditions and wellness needs, without manufactured health and wellness products, that can be detrimental to health. They have purely relied upon attaining or maintaining health by plants or by other natural means. It could be argued that with the emergence of chemical and pharmacological methods, many forms of this natural means to health and wellness have declined. In fact, even by today's standards, there are many so-called under-developed countries where inhabitants' rely on nothing more than homemade health and wellness products, gained via natural methods of plants or plant-based extracts.
While conventional medicine relies on scientifically backed research to substantiate effectiveness and safety. In contrast, similar cannot be said about some alternative medicines or health and wellness products. There is no such requirement but their promotion as regard effectiveness are deemed sufficient in themselves as support for therapeutic or wellness claims.
Herbal remedies in general are harmless, however, certain claims being made by some health and wellness products promoters, (under the banner of being 'natural') can insinuate their health and wellness products being the exclusive answer to your health condition or wellness questions, thus putting you at great risk. Secondly, how open are they being about what's really inside? You should always consult your physician over any health concerns, as well as discussing with him/her your intention or choice of alternative means for treatment with any health and wellness product or remedy.
Multi-billion-dollar industries have long wealed their power by way of lobbying to gain exemption from FDA regulation. This has been exactly the case, according to the Skeptical Inquirer, who, on commenting on the 'dietary supplement industry, back in 1994, states - "Since then, these products have flooded the market, subject only to the scruples of their manufacturers".
The above point is an important one to note in that, while health and wellness products manufacturers may list ingredients and quantities being used in specific health and wellness products, there has been no real pressure on them to do so, or to do so accurately. Furthermore, neither has there been any watchdog body to ensure they are penalised for this failing.
So, what are the alternatives open to you? Increasingly, more and more people are turning to do-it-yourself health and wellness homemade herbal remedies. The distinct difference being that in making your own health and wellness products, you are in the driving seat. Not only do you have a full awareness of exactly what the ingredients are and the true quantities, but with the appropriate level of guidance from a reputable practitioner, you're more conversant with any health implications, if any.
With the right know-how, you too can draw on the old-fashioned yet effective sources to greatly improve your health. For instance, using naturally prepared herbs, vitamins, minerals and nutritional supplements, essential oils and flower essences to create real healing solutions that deal with particular health conditions rather than just the symptoms.
It is in the interest of a health and wellness product manufacturers to promote their products as being the only option open to you. They don't want you to know about the abundant natural resources and health-giving potent attributes of herbs and home remedies which have been used effectively for thousands of years. You see, these remedies cannot be patented because you can make them yourself and at a fraction of the cost.
Whether your goal is to overcome illness, drugs intolerance, allergies or just to optimise your already good health, with a little know-how, you can start making your own health and wellness products and remedies, using nothing more than the readily available natural resources in your home and garden. Not only will you save your hard earned cash, you also alleviate the risk of serious or harmful additives and side effects.
Are you interested in learning more about how you can treat numerous common ailments without the harsh side effects, using nothing but natural herbs, vitamins and nutrients you prepare yourself at home? For instance, did you know that placing yogurt on your face help to bring water from the deeper layers of your skin to the surface, moisturizing your skin for the rest of the day and hiding wrinkles?
Here are just a few more of the many quick and effective remedies you can learn to make:
1. Natural laxatives
2. Beauty recipes
3. Skin care and cleansing preparations such as acne treatment
4. Herbal shampoos as well as how to treat hair loss,
5. Dermatitis
6. Menstrual Pain and PMS Symptoms
Commit to your Wellness – Part I
Your nose is running. Your body aches. You know you got that cold from your seven-year-old. The work project you’ve been struggling with is due Friday, and you keep telling yourself, “I just don’t have time to be sick.”
No career-committed mother wants to give up her precious time to illness. But the truth is if you don’t make time for your health, you will have to make time for illness. And, illness, we all know throws a curve ball at our balance.
This is not meant as a finger-wagging “I told you so.” Sometimes even the very healthiest of us gets the flu. But you have a much better chance of staving off the germs that your child brings home, the headaches and backaches that you might be prone to, the fatigue that has plagued you in the past, if you pay attention to your health.
Unfortunately, most of us spend more time taking care of other people and other things than we do taking care of our health. We make sure our children eat nutritious foods, yet we skip meals. We let our exercise routine go because it clashes with another family member’s schedule. We sacrifice our sleep staying up late to get things done. But part of taking care of other people, particularly our children, is to model healthy living. So how do you fit in exercise, relaxation and all those fresh carrots and green vegetables when time is so limited in your life already?
Start by reclaiming ownership of your health. Good health is about integrating all aspects of your life—body, mind and spirit. It’s more than adding three hours a week at the gym to your schedule. It’s about obtaining a general sense of well-being. Take a step back and look at your health from a more holistic perspective—exercise is just one part of the equation. Examine how you are treating your body. Are you respecting it in terms of nutrition, movement and rest? Are you tuned in and paying attention to how you feel?
See Your Doctor(s) Regularly
If you haven’t seen your general practitioner lately, make an appointment for a full physical exam. That includes checking your cholesterol and blood pressure levels and, if you’ve been feeling particularly stressed or tired, having your thyroid and adrenal gland checked as well. This will give you a base measurement from which you can go forward.
While you’re looking after yourself, schedule an appointment or medical screening with your dentist and optometrist as well. You’d do it for your car, so why not your body? In particular, if you’re experiencing any unusual symptoms, don’t ignore them. Lumps, bumps, knots and fatigue are your body’s way of saying that something requires your attention. Tell the appropriate health-care provider about them.
Become a Strategic Eater
The fuel you put into your body can make all the difference to your health and energy levels. Practicing good nutrition means learning about food. It does not mean dieting. Understanding which foods give you energy and which rob you of your vitality is essential to keeping you at your best. Different metabolisms call for different combinations of fat, protein and carbohydrates, and through being aware of what you’re eating and how you’re feeling you will know what foods combine to bring you maximum energy.
While becoming clear which foods work best for you, start thinking about the size and frequency of your meals. Eating small amounts five or six times a day has proven to be better for us than three large meals. It is easier on the digestive system and provides a more constant, even flow of energy to the body, avoiding the hunger peaks and valleys. You’ll be less tempted to grab that chocolate bar or bag of potato chips to get you through the afternoon, and you’ll arrive home with better energy to face the evening.
Water is the elixir of life. The problem is most of us don’t get enough of it. If you experience fatigue or headaches in the afternoon, it could be a sign of dehydration. If you work in front of a computer, you are even more susceptible to dehydration. So how do you get those six to eight glasses of water a day that we’re supposed to have? Try buying a case of water bottles and kept them in your office. To keep track of how much you are drinking, stack the empty water bottles on your filing cabinet throughout the day. Keeping a box of bottled water in the trunk of her car, along with your gym bag is another solution. When you go to work out, you can easily grab a bottle of water as you grab your gym bag. If you drive to work, keep two bottles of water in your car in place of that morning coffee mug. Then you’ve got one for the drive in, and one for the drive home.
No career-committed mother wants to give up her precious time to illness. But the truth is if you don’t make time for your health, you will have to make time for illness. And, illness, we all know throws a curve ball at our balance.
This is not meant as a finger-wagging “I told you so.” Sometimes even the very healthiest of us gets the flu. But you have a much better chance of staving off the germs that your child brings home, the headaches and backaches that you might be prone to, the fatigue that has plagued you in the past, if you pay attention to your health.
Unfortunately, most of us spend more time taking care of other people and other things than we do taking care of our health. We make sure our children eat nutritious foods, yet we skip meals. We let our exercise routine go because it clashes with another family member’s schedule. We sacrifice our sleep staying up late to get things done. But part of taking care of other people, particularly our children, is to model healthy living. So how do you fit in exercise, relaxation and all those fresh carrots and green vegetables when time is so limited in your life already?
Start by reclaiming ownership of your health. Good health is about integrating all aspects of your life—body, mind and spirit. It’s more than adding three hours a week at the gym to your schedule. It’s about obtaining a general sense of well-being. Take a step back and look at your health from a more holistic perspective—exercise is just one part of the equation. Examine how you are treating your body. Are you respecting it in terms of nutrition, movement and rest? Are you tuned in and paying attention to how you feel?
See Your Doctor(s) Regularly
If you haven’t seen your general practitioner lately, make an appointment for a full physical exam. That includes checking your cholesterol and blood pressure levels and, if you’ve been feeling particularly stressed or tired, having your thyroid and adrenal gland checked as well. This will give you a base measurement from which you can go forward.
While you’re looking after yourself, schedule an appointment or medical screening with your dentist and optometrist as well. You’d do it for your car, so why not your body? In particular, if you’re experiencing any unusual symptoms, don’t ignore them. Lumps, bumps, knots and fatigue are your body’s way of saying that something requires your attention. Tell the appropriate health-care provider about them.
Become a Strategic Eater
The fuel you put into your body can make all the difference to your health and energy levels. Practicing good nutrition means learning about food. It does not mean dieting. Understanding which foods give you energy and which rob you of your vitality is essential to keeping you at your best. Different metabolisms call for different combinations of fat, protein and carbohydrates, and through being aware of what you’re eating and how you’re feeling you will know what foods combine to bring you maximum energy.
While becoming clear which foods work best for you, start thinking about the size and frequency of your meals. Eating small amounts five or six times a day has proven to be better for us than three large meals. It is easier on the digestive system and provides a more constant, even flow of energy to the body, avoiding the hunger peaks and valleys. You’ll be less tempted to grab that chocolate bar or bag of potato chips to get you through the afternoon, and you’ll arrive home with better energy to face the evening.
Water is the elixir of life. The problem is most of us don’t get enough of it. If you experience fatigue or headaches in the afternoon, it could be a sign of dehydration. If you work in front of a computer, you are even more susceptible to dehydration. So how do you get those six to eight glasses of water a day that we’re supposed to have? Try buying a case of water bottles and kept them in your office. To keep track of how much you are drinking, stack the empty water bottles on your filing cabinet throughout the day. Keeping a box of bottled water in the trunk of her car, along with your gym bag is another solution. When you go to work out, you can easily grab a bottle of water as you grab your gym bag. If you drive to work, keep two bottles of water in your car in place of that morning coffee mug. Then you’ve got one for the drive in, and one for the drive home.
Commit to your Wellness – Part II
We have already reviewed the importance of scheduling appointments with your health-care provider(s) and creating your own personal nourishment plan that includes smaller, more frequent meals and plenty of water. Here are a few more ideas to help you rejuvenate a happy, healthier you.
Make Meal Planning a Family Event
One of the simplest ways to keep your health on track is to plan your meals. Many of us wake up with two questions on our minds: “what should I wear today?” and “what should I make for dinner?” Running in the door at dinnertime having to come up with that constant “six o’clock solution” creates stress and leaves us open to less-than-healthy answers.
For many people, last-minute meals often mean hitting the drive-through on the way home or ordering take-out meals several times a week. While a bucket of chicken or a pizza can be a great treat, as regular fare it is hard on your body and can be hard on your wallet. Try calling a family meeting when everyone can be there and ask your family if they are willing to take a more active role in dinnertime planning and preparation. Get clear on everyone’s time commitments, and then come up with a “dinner agenda” for the upcoming week. Draft a shopping list to ensure all the ingredients required for the meals will be available. In spite of the extra work, your family will learn about nutrition and will be able to participate and enter their particular favorite foods into the menus. Best of all, you won’t have to face that awful question at the end of every long day—“Hey mom, what’s for supper?”
Move for the Joy of It
Okay, you know that exercise is good for you. You know that regular exercise reduces stress, decreases cholesterol levels, lowers blood pressure, strengthens your immune system and improves the health of your heart. Even though you know all this, it is still challenging, if not downright impossible, for you to fit regular exercise into your life. Many of us have started “exercise programs” with the best of intentions, only to find ourselves three months later wondering what happened when we recognize that somehow the exercise program has been squeezed out of our agendas. You only have to look at the crowds in the fitness classes in January and compare that to the turnout in April to know that you are not alone.
There are several reasons exercise programs ebb and flow. First, if the exercise program feels like a “should” you likely won’t keep it up. If you are trying to “fit it in” rather than commit to it as a priority, you likely won’t keep it up. If it starts out too big—like telling yourself you are going to go to the gym three times a week or three mornings by seven o’clock—there’s a high probability you won’t keep it up. But most importantly, if is not joyful, you definitely won’t do it. If you want more physical activity in your life, try looking at exercise differently.
List the activities you loved to do as child. What kind of movement was fun for you? Remember the things you used to do as a young girl, when you weren’t concerned about “getting in shape” or keeping off the pounds. What activities were a part of your life up until your schedule became “too busy” for exercise?
To bring joyful movement back into your life, try starting with small steps. Commit to doing whatever it is you love to do for a short amount of time each day. You might also want to try changing your view of what an “exercise program” is. Turn up the music and dance in your living room, just for the joy of it. Or walk along the ocean or in the park by your home and smell the fresh air and enjoy the scenery. When you focus on the joy of exercise, it no longer feels like a “should;” it becomes something that you really love and want to do.
Keep in mind using a balanced approach when committing to your wellness. Resist the temptation to go to the extreme—overeating versus dieting, excessive exercise or none at all. Listen to your body and your intuition; they will guide you as you move toward better health.
Make Meal Planning a Family Event
One of the simplest ways to keep your health on track is to plan your meals. Many of us wake up with two questions on our minds: “what should I wear today?” and “what should I make for dinner?” Running in the door at dinnertime having to come up with that constant “six o’clock solution” creates stress and leaves us open to less-than-healthy answers.
For many people, last-minute meals often mean hitting the drive-through on the way home or ordering take-out meals several times a week. While a bucket of chicken or a pizza can be a great treat, as regular fare it is hard on your body and can be hard on your wallet. Try calling a family meeting when everyone can be there and ask your family if they are willing to take a more active role in dinnertime planning and preparation. Get clear on everyone’s time commitments, and then come up with a “dinner agenda” for the upcoming week. Draft a shopping list to ensure all the ingredients required for the meals will be available. In spite of the extra work, your family will learn about nutrition and will be able to participate and enter their particular favorite foods into the menus. Best of all, you won’t have to face that awful question at the end of every long day—“Hey mom, what’s for supper?”
Move for the Joy of It
Okay, you know that exercise is good for you. You know that regular exercise reduces stress, decreases cholesterol levels, lowers blood pressure, strengthens your immune system and improves the health of your heart. Even though you know all this, it is still challenging, if not downright impossible, for you to fit regular exercise into your life. Many of us have started “exercise programs” with the best of intentions, only to find ourselves three months later wondering what happened when we recognize that somehow the exercise program has been squeezed out of our agendas. You only have to look at the crowds in the fitness classes in January and compare that to the turnout in April to know that you are not alone.
There are several reasons exercise programs ebb and flow. First, if the exercise program feels like a “should” you likely won’t keep it up. If you are trying to “fit it in” rather than commit to it as a priority, you likely won’t keep it up. If it starts out too big—like telling yourself you are going to go to the gym three times a week or three mornings by seven o’clock—there’s a high probability you won’t keep it up. But most importantly, if is not joyful, you definitely won’t do it. If you want more physical activity in your life, try looking at exercise differently.
List the activities you loved to do as child. What kind of movement was fun for you? Remember the things you used to do as a young girl, when you weren’t concerned about “getting in shape” or keeping off the pounds. What activities were a part of your life up until your schedule became “too busy” for exercise?
To bring joyful movement back into your life, try starting with small steps. Commit to doing whatever it is you love to do for a short amount of time each day. You might also want to try changing your view of what an “exercise program” is. Turn up the music and dance in your living room, just for the joy of it. Or walk along the ocean or in the park by your home and smell the fresh air and enjoy the scenery. When you focus on the joy of exercise, it no longer feels like a “should;” it becomes something that you really love and want to do.
Keep in mind using a balanced approach when committing to your wellness. Resist the temptation to go to the extreme—overeating versus dieting, excessive exercise or none at all. Listen to your body and your intuition; they will guide you as you move toward better health.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)