A selection of News Feeds
Here is a selection of news feeds that you may find interesting. BCWC is not the author of these articles. In fact, we may or may not agree with them. :-)
They do provide interesting reading though.
Ayurvedic Medicine: An Alternative Way To A Healthier You
Ayurvedic medicine came from the ancient traditional medicine practice in India known as Ayurveda. The ayurvedic medicine’s origin is the ancient books of knowledge called Vedas which imparts physical, spiritual and psychological approaches to good health and longevity.
Ayurvedic medicine’s combination of physical, spiritual and psychological treatment stems from the belief that it is inherent upon the human body to rejuvenate and heal itself, and therefore achieves its natural balance.
Ayurvedic medicine arranges its remedies on the nature of the disease to be treated whether it is air or nerve, water or mucoid or fire or nature.
Correspondingly, it is classified as Vata, Kapha or Pitta in Ayurveda and uses herbs, massage and yoga to improve and maintain wellness.
Ayurvedic medicine is among the complementary and alternative medicine in western society.
Ayurvedic medicine is a customized treatment which suits the person, because Ayurveda’s concept interconnects the body’s constitution or the prakriti and life’s forces or doshas.
As such, patients are expected to be active participants because it necessitates changes in lifestyle which includes diet and habits. With these, ayurvedic medicine administer to the wholeness of the person which put emphasis on the prevention of sickness.
The benefits of ayurvedic medicine- Ayurvedic medicine’s adherence to prevention rather than cure helps in achieving the natural balance of the body. With this it:
- Eliminates impurities, because the treatment cleanses and eliminates toxins which hinder body functions.
- It reduces symptoms of diseases because of the practitioner’s suggestion that the patient do exercises, stretching, meditation or massage, as well as encouraging a healthy diet and eating herbs for easier digestion.
- It boosts immunity and resistance to disease. The practitioner may take additional tonics based from the Ayurvedic texts to aid digestion and strengthen the immune system.
- It reduces worry because it has programs which liberate the patient from negative emotions.
- It does not have any side effects because ayurvedic medicine uses herbal medicines in the treatment of the body.
- It is non-invasive and non-toxic which complements conventional medical therapies and treatment.
- Its diet encourages a healthy lifestyle which is tailored made in accordance with the body type and the food in season. As such it treats and prevents metabolic related health issues like: obesity, constipation and diabetes.
- Its therapeutic skin care system focuses on the important points of the body and the life forces or doshas. As such it is used to treat acne and other skin related problems.
- Ayurvedic medicine also helps in stress related sicknesses like: depression, anxiety attacks, nervous disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome and insomnia.
- It treats common sicknesses like colds, flu, immunity problems and allergies.
- It also treats chronic conditions like: asthma, hypertension, nervous disorders, inflammation and heart disease.
Things to consider before applying ayurvedic medicine
Now, that you have a good idea of ayurvedic medicine and its benefits, here are some points to take into consideration before applying ayurvedic medicine to your body:
- Inquire with your health provider if this complimentary medicine can work for you. Inform them your plans so that you are sure getting a safe care and good health management.
- Ayurvedic medicine is not meant to replace proven conventional medicines and treatment. Again, the practice of ayurvedic medicine is complimentary and not primary.
- The use of ayurvedic medicine should be made under the supervision of ayurvedic medicine practitioner.
Fibromyalgia – What Is It And What Alternative Medicine Can Help?
Fibromyalgia is a disorder that causes chronic, widespread pain and response to pressure that is painful. It is a condition of being hyper-aware of environmental stimuli including pain, smell, vibration, light, sound etc.
People with Fibromyalgia may also have trouble with swallowing, with their bowel movement and abnormalities with the bladder.
Fatigue, anxiety and depression are also associated with Fibromyalgia. Nine out of ten patients who report this disorder are females.
There could be a number of factors responsible for the presence of this disorder: genetic predisposition could be a reason. Stress and other psychological factors may also be responsible.
Dopamine dysfunction, abnormal serotonin metabolism and other factors may also cause Fibromyalgia. While conventionally this problem is treated with anti depressants, anti seizure medication and dopamine agonists, alternative treatments may also be tried such as:
Herbs and supplements- S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is seen to help sufferers of Fibromyalgia by reducing the number of tender points and depression. Also improvement was noted in fatigue, morning stiffness and mood.
- A magnesium supplement is also seen to help with pain and tenderness associated with Fibromyalgia.
- Sometimes the presence of this disorder is attributed to deficiency of Vitamin D so that a Vitamin D supplement is very often seen to improve symptoms.
- 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is a supplement thought to work by increasing serotonin in the brain so that pain modulating systems of the brain are positively impacted. Stiffness, anxiety, sleep, fatigue and pain may all be helped.
- Other herbal remedies help with improving sleep patterns and energy levels as well.
- Acupuncture is thought to improve symptoms by changing release of neurotransmitters so that pain tolerance is improved. A few weeks of therapy can help with alleviating chronic pain.
- Swedish massage involving long strokes, friction techniques and kneading is also thought to help by stimulating better circulation and the metabolism. Deep layers of muscle are targeted to reduce tension.
- Biofeedback is a recommended therapy for fibromyalgia and may help greatly to control pain. The mind body relaxation techniques used in Biofeedback can reduce stress and chronic pain.
- Homeopathy’s very small doses of medication are seen to help patients fight symptoms by stimulating the body to improve its defense mechanisms.
- Meditation is seen to improve symptoms by helping patients get in touch with their spiritual sides. It can help promote feelings of happiness and serenity, thereby promoting management of symptoms.
Psoriasis Natural Remedies
Psoriasis is generally characterized by excessive skin production and inflammation of the skin; a chronic recurring condition that many find to cure to.
Usually steroids for topical application may be prescribed for the condition; however this is usually seen to offer only temporary relief and many would choose against using steroids in any case.
Biochemical formulations are seen to be an effective alternative treatment for psoriasis, since they help to realign and rebalance the body’s deficiencies.
Several biochemical preparations such as Calcarea Flour and Kali Sulph are thought to be useful in controlling and treating this unsightly skin condition.
The treatment will be required to be taken for a considerable amount of time, for full benefit to accrue.
Some experts recommend that psoriasis be treated with a two pronged alternative approach, since there is also a psychological factor that impacts the severity of psoriasis symptoms.
Bach flower remedies can be used to enhance the mood of a person and help control stress, thereby helping to combat the disease.
The Bach flower remedy of crab apple can help to calm a person and help them accept themselves and their condition as being a cause of disfigurement without feelings of disgust.
Taken together these alternative remedies help many people lessen the severity of symptoms that psoriasis produces.
The Impact of Group Drumming on Social-emotional Behavior in Low-income Children
Jul 9, 2010; 0:721-72
Some Tips To Start Off With Yoga
If you thought that yoga was all about chanting and meditation, you would only be partly right, because yoga can actually really useful for weight loss as well. Yoga can help in weight loss particularly when used in conjunction with your regular fitness routine –
- Check with a doctor before starting a yoga program to see if there are positions unsuitable for you in particular.
- Look up some basic positions and postures before starting the program and trying out some that you think you could do, so you know what to expect. Online videos will give you a good idea.
- Do some stretching at home to improve flexibility beforehand.
- Inform the instructor that you are a beginner and if you need help, ask for it.
- Observation of other students can offer you a lot of useful pointers on performing the same movements yourself.
- Don’t rush it or get frustrated. Yoga can take time to master so be patient, don’t strain yourself and stick with it. Progress may be gradual but don’t let that hold you back.
- Dress comfortably and remember yoga is best done barefoot so no fancy footwear is required.
- Don’t eat just before class, rather drink some water.
Homeopathic Remedies For Different Ailments
Medical advances never seem to cease especially in the world we live in today. People tend to seek more medical attention with the growing number of them falling prone to sicknesses that may be caused by their daily routines and consequential results thereafter.
Because of this, people have sought medical attention through the practice of homeopathic remedies.
The practice of homeopathy was first invented by the German physician named Samuel Hahnemann.
It states that if large doses of drug elements that produce the same effect of the sickness itself is given to a patient in small miniscule doses, would stimulate the body to react and boost the immune system to combat the sickness itself.
In effect, homeopathic remedies, if compared to our common medical practices today, it would be like applying vaccines that actually help boost our body’s capabilities to act upon sicknesses themselves.
There are a lot of homeopathic remedies that have been discovered since the time of Dr. Hahnemann. Again, medical advances have come up with more remedies that can be administered to individuals today and address their ailments.
To be more precise, here are some of the sicknesses that homeopathic remedies actually address that are common and inflict a lot of individuals today:
Homeopathic remedies for cough ailmentsCough is a very common sickness that millions of people report to have. Certain abrupt changes in weather and other circumstances can aggravate this sickness.
There are different degrees for cough, and because of this, there are also different homeopathic remedies for them. Examples of these remedies are Belladonna, Chamomilla, and Bryonia.
Homeopathic remedies for eczemaThese are chronic irritations in the skin that usually come out as rashes. They are known to be very itchy and have numerous degrees that start from mild to severe cases. Some of the homeopathic remedies that are applied to eczema patients are petroleum, sulphur, and graphites.
Homeopathic remedies for arthritisThis condition often occurs in aged people. The condition itself delivers stiffness to certain parts of the body such as the feet and hands, usually accompanied by severe pain and discomfort.
Homeopathic remedies such as arnica, causticum, and dulcamara are usually prescribed to those who suffer from arthritis.
The use of homeopathic remedies is beneficial to those who use them, and for those who are planning to use them. For one, they are cheap and affordable as compared to the conventional drugs that may cost a fortune to even purchase them for long term use.
The fact that homeopathic remedies rely on the symptoms of the patients themselves saves them a lot of money from extensive testing and medical results. People who have used these remedies have also reported that they are very effective in both short and long term ailments.
Remember to always consult a doctor before taking these homeopathic remedies. Prescriptions have to be administered by professionals because they should have a certain amount of dosage for certain symptoms for sicknesses.
It would also be best to disclose everything you are feeling to your doctor so that the proper advice and prescription can be given to you.
Alternative Therapies Give Immense Relief From Back Pain
Anyone who has had recurring, chronic aches and pains knows how difficult the pain is to live with and also how very difficult it is to get rid of it. However, a new study has shown that alternative treatments are of immense benefit for back pain.
As many as 60% of those surveyed said that they had tried some or other (in cases more than one type) of alternative treatment for their back pain and that the CAM (complementary and alternative medicine) therapy had offered exceptional relief. The top therapies that were shown to provide the maximum relief for back pain were:
- Chiropractic Treatment
- Massage
- Yoga
- Tai Chi qi Gong
- Acupuncture
- Herbal remedies
- Relaxation techniques
From among these, it was seen that chiropractic care was the most effective and the most preferred option with 74% people using that to resolve their back pain. Massage therapy came in next; however a range of different alternative remedies were used by back pain sufferers ranging from naturopathy to hypnotherapy.
Though the findings of the study are significant and encouraging in that they show that alternative therapies do work for a great many people, it was disheartening to note that 24% of those surveyed had alternative therapy recommended by their regular medical practitioners.
Alternative Therapies For Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy is a term that covers a number of disorders that result in disability of human development.
Cerebral palsy develops during pregnancy or infancy and can cause disturbances in perception and sensation, cognitive problems, difficulties in communication, impeded behavior, and other musculoskeletal problems.
Conventionally, physical, behavioral, speech and occupational therapy combined with drug therapy is used for managing Cerebral Palsy, however, there are a number of alternative treatments that can help manage cerebral Palsy:
The Adeli Suit: Originally developed for soviet cosmonauts, this was a suit constructed to help maintain muscle tone of astronauts in the weightless environment of space.
Children with motor control problems can wear this form fitting suit, which is fitted with adjustable elastic bands, which helps align and restrict the body appropriately.
Use of the Adeli suit is thought to help re-train the brain to send the correct signals for movement to the muscles. There has been improvement reported in gaining speech and better motor control and movement using the Adeli suit.
Other products based on the same concept are known by names such as the TheraSuit, NeutoSuit and the Penguin Suit
Magnetic Molecular Energizing: This therapy uses the power of magnets, for managing cerebral palsy. This therapy is thought to improve the chemical reactions in the body, improve oxygenation, nutrient assimilation, enzyme production, free radical control, metabolic waste removal and tissue regeneration.
Also the rate of healing is improved using magnetic energizing. Many choose to try it out particularly since it is painless, non invasive and has no side effects.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment: The basic premise of this therapy is that saturating the blood with oxygen (by breathing pure oxygen inside a pressurized chamber), a number of problems such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, head injuries, autism, injuries as well as CP can get help and treatment.
G therapy: This is a therapy that is developed using constituents of homeopathy and bio-chemical salts. This treatment is thought to work by stimulating the neurotransmitters of the brain and clearing blockages.
Expression, communications, emotional development and intelligence may all be improved using this therapy. Many have found this therapy useful in managing an autistic child and children with other brain related disorders.
G therapy is found to be particularly useful for managing CP when used in conjunction with counseling, physiotherapy and speech therapy. Parents have reported improvement in speech, motor movement, sleep patterns and spasticity within days of starting treatment.
Ideas For Natural Air Fresheners
In a bid to rid our homes of unnecessary chemicals, we could well be making use of natural produce such as baking soda and vinegar for cleaning.
Another thing you can do to pare down the use of artificial products and chemicals in your home is to make use of Natural Air Fresheners: this obviates the need to get those pressurized cans into the house, which release harmful CFCs and create unnecessary waste.
You can make your own natural air fresheners using Essential Oils right at home that can help to spread wonderful natural fragrances, improve the mood, deodorize the home (think bathrooms and closets); and also in some cases provide allergic relief.
Essential oils such as eucalyptus, lavender, geranium, mint, sandalwood, citronella, and frankincense are good choices for making your own natural air freshener.
You can use these in two simple ways to make your house smell fresh and fragrant:
- Use a diffuser. You can use one that uses a candle to heat the water in which the essential oils have been mixed or you can use an electric diffuser.
- Mix the essential oils with water (preferably distilled) in a spray bottle and use as and where required around the house.
Alternative Remedies For Anxiety
The Mayo Clinic is a source of very reliable, scientific study based information about mainstream medicine; and in a recent article, they have highlighted information about alternative remedies / supplements for treating anxiety.
Although it is not fully understood how these herbal supplements work to reduce feelings of anxiety and also side effects and varying degrees of efficacy on different people, the following supplements are seen to relieve symptoms of anxiety:
Kava: This herb is known to aid feelings of relaxation without sedation or engendering feelings of drowsiness. Those with liver problems should use this supplement will caution however, or if you drink alcohol each day or if you are on certain medications that impact the liver.
Valerian: This supplement is known to aid sleep and have a sedative effect. It is also used to treat anxiety though its efficacy in this respect is not fully established.
B Vitamins: B vitamins are essential for a number of bodily processes, and in particular the B vitamin inositol, is known to impact the production of certain brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) and thereby help in curbing feelings of anxiety.
All supplements should be cleared with a doctor and one should make sure that they are safe and won’t cause any reaction with other medications.
The Art Of Reflexology Foot Massage
Reflexology foot massage is the art of touch therapy wherein pressure is applied to various areas in the feet.
It dates back to ancient times, as the Chinese have discovered that nerves in the feet are connected to various internal organs, and hence problems in these organs can be cured by applying pressure on the nerve endings.
Reflexology foot massage has then been recognized as a non-invasive and simple procedure that allows stimulation to internal organs.
There is a chart that is followed by all therapists and practitioners of reflexology foot massage, which indicates which organs of the body, are connected to different areas in the foot.
If extreme pain or discomfort is felt when pressure is applied to areas on the foot, it helps the therapist determine the cause of the problem even if there are no other symptoms that present itself. It is recommended for anyone, from children to seniors, as a safe, holistic method of treatment.
Reflexology foot massage is widely known for its effectiveness. Here are some of its numerous benefits:
- It brings about equilibrium and achieves a state of homeostasis for the body, wherein all systems are functioning properly and effectively.
- Reflexology is helpful in curing a number of problems, such as headaches, fatigue, sleep disorders, appetite problems, asthma, digestive problems, sinusitis, and constipation.
- Overall improved blood circulation, which also brings about strengthened immune system as it allows free flow of the lymph fluids throughout the body.
- Relieves pain and stiffness brought about by sports injuries, exercise, or improper posture.
- Patients will feel a heightened sense of relaxation and well-being emotionally and mentally as a result of reflexology foot massage.
- You will be able to eliminate toxins in your system after a massage, and drinking water after your session will be a great help in doing so.
One of the best things about reflexology foot massage is that it has no side effects. However, some precautions should be taken in certain cases:
- The massage should only be done after at least one hour following a meal.
- Pregnant women, those menstruating, and those who are experiencing internal bleeding are advised not to do reflexology foot massage.
- Within one hour of the reflexology foot massage session, it is not recommended to wet your feet with cold water as this will result in tightening of pores and compacting of the muscles to keep the body warm.
You can also enjoy the benefits of reflexology foot massage regularly even if you are not experiencing any pain or physical discomfort you want to cure.
Many patients do it as they enjoy the feeling of relaxation after each session, and because it also promotes overall well-being and healthy circulation.
In fact, doing so regularly will greatly contribute to your internal and mental health, because it ensures that your internal systems are healthy. Reflexology foot massage is one of the best ways you can take care of yourself today.
Homeopathy Funding Comes Under Fire From British Doctors
British doctors have called upon the National Health Service or NHS to stop their funding to homeopathic remedies and have also said that homeopathic formulations should not be marketed as medicines in pharmacies.
It is the charge that homeopathy’s highly diluted remedies are “nonsense”; doctors also criticize this form of alternative treatment alleging that it causes people to shun conventional medications.
Doctors are agitating against the expenditure of 4 million pounds a year on homeopathic treatment which they claim has only a placebo effect.
In defense of the treatment however, one doctor questioned the concept of “scientific evidence” and that it was not fair to single out homeopathy.
The Society of Homeopaths also claim that the remedies work and that public money spent on it was in fact very low; just 0.001% of the drugs budget.
Now why would mainstream doctors protest? If someone finds benefit, even by way of a placebo effect, surely no one is being harmed here. After all, there is no one who can argue against the fact that homeopathy is devoid of harmful side effects.
Top 10 Benefits Of Reiki Massage
Reiki is a Japanese word for Universal Life Force Energy. Reiki massage pertains to the use of spiritual energy to heal a person’s aura through kneading and rubbing various body parts to obtain spiritual therapy.
Although reiki and massage are two different things, the combination of these in Reiki massage helps a patient achieve physical and spiritual well-being simultaneously.
In order to learn how to conduct a Reiki massage, one must learn with a sensei or teacher, who is a skilled Reiki practitioner. They teach the apprentice how to absorb energy from the universe, and channel it to their patient to promote well-being.
The master will also act as a channel through which bad energy is removed and replaced with good energy. The entire procedure will then allow the patient to heal spiritually and physically.
Reiki massage is a recognized form of holistic healing that has been around for thousands of years. It is known for providing an alternative treatment to many ailments in the body. Its benefits include the following:
- Reiki massage helps greatly with pain relief and management.
- Removes energy blockages and helps with circulation of good energy and blood flow.
- Helps protect and strengthen the immune system.
- Increases one’s vitality and postpones the aging process.
- Promotes spiritual growth and emotional clarity.
- Speeds up the body’s healing properties.
- Encourages better sleeping and breathing.
- Assists in detoxifying and removal of waste and toxins.
- Reduces high blood pressure.
- Reduces side effects from drugs and medical treatment.
Because of the many benefits and illnesses that Reiki massage can heal, it has become a popular choice for alternative treatment.
It has also been around for thousands of years, yet patients today can still benefit from the art of the massage in the local wellness centers.
If you want to maximize the good that Reiki massage can do for your body and well-being, it is recommended to do long-term practice instead of just a few sessions to address your problems.
Long-term treatment through this type of massage will open your energy channels and allow you to enjoy stronger immunity, and mental and spiritual defense and clarity against the stress that daily life can bring.
Everyone can benefit from the use of Reiki massage; it doesn’t matter if you are young, pregnant, or old. However, it should be noted that it should not be seen as an instant cure-all for disease.
It should be used as a complementary treatment and can also be used alongside Western medicine and other forms of treatment especially for serious conditions.
However, if you simply want to use the massage to treat minor problems such as pain management, Reiki massage can be of great help.
It is also a great way to achieve emotional well-being even if no pain or illness is being experienced. Make sure you only work with a licensed Reiki massage practitioner to maximize your benefits of this ancient art and method of healing.
Pain Management For A Herniated Disc
A herniated disc, also called a slipped disc colloquially, happens when there is a tear in the outer fibrous ring of the disc which causes the central soft portion to bulge out.
Since most herniated discs will resolve themselves without surgery, the main problem is pain management here.
As anyone who has had a slipped disc will tell you, this is a very painful condition. So if one does not want to go the non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug way, what are the options for pain relief?
IceAs with all swelling and inflammation, ice can help here as well to reduce the pain and numb the inflamed and sensitive nerves. Apply an ice pack (never use ice directly) to the area regularly, several times a day for several days in a row for best results.
Therapy BallIt is best to clear the use of this with your physician first, but many experts recommend the use of a therapy ball: sitting and bouncing gently on these balls for several minutes a day, helps to send blood and oxygen to the spinal area, hastening the healing process.
BiofreezeThis is a chiropractic/physical therapy medication; a pain relief gel containing Ilex that helps to reduce inflammation and swelling. This can also help in pain management for a herniated disc.
What Is Mind-Body Medicine?
The concept of Mind-Body Medicine is that which uses a number of different techniques to enhance the capacity of the mind to impact the functions of the body and symptoms.
Primarily, prayer, meditation and using creative outlets are the therapies employed in this treatment; but a lot more besides.
Stress is one of the chief problems that mind-body medicine seeks to address, but you can do a lot more to help your body by integrating thought and feelings with your body.
We now understand more and more about how emotions and emotional wellbeing impact our physical well being and even determine our long term health and indeed how long we will live.
Happiness, said Socrates, is the highest good for any human being. And the concept of happiness needs clarification here: this is not the transient kind brought on by instant gratification of appetites and desires; rather it is a natural outcome and the sum total of a life well lived!
Here is one way that can help you start to feel happier about your own life: for a week, do this before going to bed: write down three good things that happened today.
Also add why they happened. This simple exercise has been proven to increase one’s instances of being in a positive mood and decrease the instances of being in a negative mood!
Reflexology Massage – What It Can Do To Your Body?
Reflexology massage is a form of therapy that focuses on using the feet, as well as the hands, to heal other parts of the body.
It works with the premise that certain nerve endings are located in the feet and hands that are connected to vital organs and glands, which, when pressure is applied to these endings, serve as therapy and treatment.
Reflexology massage dates back to ancient Oriental times. A map of the feet shows where certain pressure points are.
It is a Chinese method of treatment that teaches that the body has several lines, just like a globe, where energy flows through.
When one is experiencing pain or disorders, these energy lines are blocked, and reflexology is their approach to unblocking these areas.
It is believed that reflexology massage can promote health through its non-invasive form of treatment and therapy.
There are different pressure points in reflexology massage that must be considered for it to become effective and they are commonly found in the feet. The pressure points located in the feet are the following:
- The area towards the heel is connected to the intestines and lower back
- The ball of the foot[Foot reflexology] is connected to the chest and the heart
- The toes reflect the head
- The foot’s arch is connected to the kidney, pancreas, and liver
During the reflexology massage session, the pressure applied to these points usually makes most people feel relaxed, while soreness or pain may indicate trouble spots. However, over the course of the session, the pain normally decreases.
Common illnesses that can be treated with reflexology massage
- Digestion problems
- Back pain
- Stress-induced physical pain
- Insomnia
- Arthritis
- Headaches
- Sports injuries
- Pain relief from neck, shoulders, and the jaw
- Benefits of reflexology massage
No equipment or special tools are needed to heal with reflexology massage. This method of treatment is non-invasive and completely safe for anyone.
However, if you are pregnant or have blood clots, you may want to consult with a doctor first before proceeding with reflexology.
It has been used since ancient times and is recognized as one of the most effective ways to heal.
Reflexology massage gives the client an overall soothing and relaxing feeling.
You don’t need to take pills or other forms of treatment to cure your disease. Although it is not a cure-all for disease, it helps in telling you what your problem areas are so you can take future precaution in taking better care of yourself.
If you experience pain during the session, you should communicate this to your therapist. Although it’s not a substitute for medical treatment, it can provide relief for pain but may also point out serious health problems, so your therapist can provide a suggestion for the next steps you should take.
Reflexology massage approaches health holistically, and even if you don’t have any pains or problems, it is always good to make you feel relaxed and soothed.
Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy
When pregnant, women are reluctant to try on anything new, which hasn’t been tried, tested and above all proven to be safe for their unborn baby as well as their own selves. In the event they are likely to treat the concept of chiropractic care during pregnancy with at least some degree of suspicion.
However, there are many that make a strong argument in favor of using chiropractic treatment during pregnancy, stating that the many internal and external changes that take place in a woman’s body during her pregnancy can be helped with chiropractic treatment.
Also properly trained, responsible chiropractors are well aware of the dos and don’ts when it comes to pregnant women and can offer substantial help with the following:
- The increased curvature of the spine as the weight of the baby increases the bulk in front and changes the center of balance that can cause back pain.
- Enlargement of the abdomen that can cause physical stresses, aches and pains.
- Changes in the pelvis as it try to accommodate the growing baby.
- Changes in posture as a woman’s sense of balance and center of gravity alter.
Yoga – A Panacea For Many Ills
Yoga is a holistic solution for several different aims of life: physical fitness, mental health, a flexible body and all round wellness.
The benefits of yoga are physical, mental and spiritual; literally endless as demonstrated by the video of the yoga instructor who is also experienced in kick boxing and Pilates.
- On the purely physical level, yoga helps to increase flexibility, suppleness and strength of the body, which helps in turn to improve balance. Yoga exercises also give one a more flexible & sexy body.
- Also at a physical level yoga helps cleanse the important organs of the body and even helps to improve one’s digestion.
- As it increases physical self awareness, it makes your body movements more graceful.
- A yoga workout increases mental wellness and can lower stress, emotional anxiety and even help control mood swings, because of the meditation element that goes hand in hand with the practice of yoga.
- It not only improves health, it helps sort out issues such as body, neck and back aches and several other ailments.
- The precise breathing exercises improve heart function and increase lung capacity as well.
Sore Throat Remedies You Can Try At Home
Sore throat is the inflammation of the throat and most of the time is highly painful and its infection can last for long period of time if not properly treated.
It can be characterized by large tonsil which is the primary cause of difficulties in swallowing and breathing. It can also go together with a cough or a fever.
To address the pain, there are sore throat remedies to help you when needed.
Common causes of sore throat
- It can be caused by common viruses like the common flu and mononucleosis. It usually produces swelling in the mouth or the throat.
- It can also be caused by bacteria.
- When breathing through the mouth, because it is the source of dryness.
- Sinus drainage.
- It can be caused as an after effect of treatment with antibiotics and other immune related medications.
Remedies for sore throat
- Gargling with salt water is the most common of the sore throat remedies. You can mix ½ tsp. of salt with 4 oz of warm water for your solution. You can gargle every few hours in intervals or as needed.
- Another gargle solution for sore throat remedies is by mixing white vinegar, salt and squash vitamin c with water.
- Here’s a surprising sore throat remedy, the chili pepper gargle solution. Mix ½ tsp of dried chili or cayenne pepper in a small amount of water and gargle. The capsaicin in the chili pepper can numb the throat.
- Drinking a good number of liquids will also relieve you from sore throat and is among the highly advisable sore throat remedies. Be cautious however with acidic juices like orange because it can irritate your throat.
- Warm water with 2 tsp of honey and the juice of one piece lemon can also relive you from sore throat pains.
- Over the counter medicines like ibuprofen or acetaminophen helps in relieving the pain.
- A humidifier is also useful especially in taking precautionary measures against sore throat.
- For sore throat remedies for adults, should you experience clogging of the nasal area, you can use nasal sprays like afrin for two to three days to avoid breathing from the mouth which in turns causes sore throat. However, do not use it excessively, because you may become dependent on them.
- Decongestant products are excellent remedies for sore throat since they can also help in declogging your nasal area.
- Be careful when using hard candies like lozenges as your sore throat remedies. It may relieve the pain temporarily but it is not advisable for young kids because it can cause choking.
- Stop smoking, in case you are a smoker.
- After experiencing sore throat, it is best to throw away your toothbrush to avoid further contamination. As such, replacing your toothbrush preferably on a monthly basis is highly suggested if you are not sick.
- If sore throat lasts for more than two weeks or you have trouble in swallowing, immediately consult your doctor for the proper medication.
Castor Oil For Good Health And Glowing Skin
Castor oil is usually associated with bowel movements and other unpleasant bodily functions, but this prosaic and unromantic sounding item is actually very good for you and your health:
- Those with arthritis can find relief in a castor oil rub, since it has natural anti inflammatory properties.
- Castor oil can also help to ease fungal infections such as ringworm that may affect different areas of the body and even the scalp and the nails.
- Even other skin infections can be eased by castor oil due to its natural antimicrobial properties. Skin inflammation, sunburn and even stretch marks can be eased.
- If you have an eye stye (an infected eyelash follicle) this can also be helped with castor oil
- Castor oil is very good for skin; applying a thin layer before going to bed can help to smooth wrinkles and fine lines. Age spots can also receive help with castor oil.
- Castor oil is also known to encourage hair growth; some say even eye lash growth. Use castor oil diluted with base oil, such as almond, which can be applied to the scalp to stimulate hair growth and also condition the hair shaft optimally.
