Full-spectrum light travels from the eye to the brain, where it triggers the hypothalamus to send chemical messengers to regulate the autonomic functions of the body, such as blood pressure, breathing, digestion, and the immune system, as well as the body’s circadian rhythm. In order to maintain health, it may be important to be exposed to light containing the full wavelength spectrum found in natural light. Full-spectrum light therapy, bright light therapy, and ultraviolet light therapy are used by some clinicians for treating conditions that range from seasonal affective disorder to bulimia, and new applications are continually being suggested.
The Alternative Health Connection is your partner in finding natural solutions to radiant health and balanced living. We are delighted to bring you a localized community calendar to assist you in connecting with alternative health events, seminars and workshops, searchable by city and zip code. So whether you're looking for events in your hometown or looking for wellness activities while you're in Santa Fe on business, we are your event connection!
If you want an appointment with a Light Therapist here are the contact details –
Adora Deva - Email: adoradeva@got.net | Phone: (831) 566-9678
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the normal amount of bone mass has decreased.
People with osteoporosis have brittle bones, which increases the risk of bone fracture, particularly in the hip, spine, and wrist. Osteoporosis is most common in postmenopausal Asian and Caucasian women. Premenopausal women are partially protected against bone loss by the hormone called estrogen. Black women often have slightly greater bone mass than do other women, which helps protect against bone fractures. In men, testosterone partially protects against bone loss even after middle age. Beyond issues of race, age, and gender, incidence varies widely from society to society, suggesting that osteoporosis is largely preventable.
What are the symptoms?
Osteoporosis is a silent disease that may not be noticed until a broken bone occurs. Signs may include diminished height, rounded shoulders, dowager’s hump, and evidence of bone loss from diagnostic tests. Symptoms may include neck or back pain.
Stand tall against osteoporosis
No matter what your age, it’s never too late to stop bone loss now for better posture and fewer fractures down the road. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful:
Pump it up
Make weight-bearing exercise a regular habit to increase bone density and prevent osteoporosis
Cut the caffeine
Avoid excessive calcium loss in the urine from by switching to healthier beverages
Aim for lifelong calcium and vitamin D nutrition
An extra 800 mg of calcium and 400 to 800 IU of vitamin D a day can help protect the bones of people at any age
Get your soy
Make tofu, soy milk, soy protein, and other sources of beneficial isoflavones a regular part of your diet
Fine-tune your protein
Too much or too little protein in your diet may increase osteoporosis risk
Watch the salt
Avoid excessive salt intake and high-salt processed and restaurant foods that may contribute to calcium and bone loss
These recommendations are not comprehensive and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or pharmacist. Click Here to continue reading the full osteoporosis article for more in-depth, fully-referenced information on medicines, vitamins, herbs, and dietary and lifestyle changes that may be helpful.
Visit www.althealthconnect.com for lots of informational articles categorized into different heads. If you are an alternative health service provider, is your profile listed in this portal? There are various options to choose from. There is a do-it-yourself web page creator. You can make use of that or if you have no time, you can give all your details to the sales team and they will do it for you. Why don’t you check www.althealthconnect.com today?
If you want an appointment with an Osteopath here are the contact details –
Richard Bernstein, D.O.
Email: dr.b@Dr-Bernstein.com | Phone: (831)-662-1900
What is Whey Protein?
Whey protein is a mixture of some of the proteins naturally found in milk. The major proteins found in whey protein include beta-lactoglobulin and alpha-lactalbumin. Whey protein has one of the highest protein digestibility-corrected amino acid scores (PDCAAS; a measure of protein bioavailability) and is more rapidly digested than other proteins, such as casein (another milk protein).
Where is it found?
During the process of making milk into cheese, whey protein is separated from the milk. This whey protein is then incorporated into ice cream, bread, canned soup, infant formulas, and other food products. Supplements containing whey protein are also available.
Why do dieters use it?*
Some dieters say that whey protein serves as another protein choice in their diets.
What do the advocates say?*
All types of protein, including whey, provide the body with amino acids.
Choosing whey protein over other types of protein adds variety to the protein choices available.
Whey is a common ingredient in many meal replacements, which are designed to provide a large amount of nutrients in a minimal amount of calories.
How much is usually taken by dieters?
Whey protein may aid weight loss due to its effect on appetite. In a preliminary study, people were given 48 grams of either whey protein or milk protein (casein). Whey consumption resulted in more hunger satisfaction and reduced the amount of food eaten 90 minutes later compared with casein consumption. However, a double-blind study found that men taking 1.5 grams per 2.2 lbs body weight per day of whey protein for 12 weeks along with a low-calorie diet and a strength training exercise program lost the same amount of weight and body fat as did a control group that followed a similar program, but took a casein supplement instead of whey protein.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
People who are allergic to dairy products could react to whey protein and should, therefore, avoid it. As with protein in general, long-term, excessive intake may be associated with deteriorating kidney function and possibly osteoporosis. However, neither kidney nor bone problems have been directly associated with consumption of whey protein, and the other dietary sources of protein typically contribute more protein to the diet than does whey protein. The possibility that certain proteins in milk may contribute to the development of diabetes in children is controversial. But since whey proteins include some of the same milk proteins, people who are avoiding milk because of concerns about the risk of diabetes should not consume whey protein either.
*Dieters and weight-management advocates may claim benefits for whey protein based on their personal or professional experience. These are individual opinions and testimonials that may or may not be supported by controlled clinical studies or published scientific articles on whey protein.
At the Alternative Health Connection, we want to empower you by connecting you with a wealth of information on vitamins/nutritional supplements and Ayurvedic herbs. Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for an in-depth library of articles on healthy eating and information on living and sustaining a healthy lifestyle.
If you want an appointment with a Holistic Medical Doctor here are the contact details –
Dr. Lonna Larsh
Email: lonna@wholefamilymd.com | Phone: 831-421-0775
Website: www.wholefamilymd.com
A doula is an assistant who provides various forms of non-medical support (physical, emotional and informed choice) in the childbirth process. Based on a particular doula's training and background, the doula may offer support during prenatal care, during childbirth and/or during the postpartum period.
A birth doula is a care provider for labor. Thus a labor doula may attend a home birth or might attend the parturient woman during labor at home and continue while in transport and then complete supporting the birth at a hospital or a birth center.
A postpartum doula typically begins providing care in the home after the birth. Such care might include cooking for the mother, breastfeeding support, newborn care assistance, errands, light housekeeping etc.
If you are looking for a health care specialist and are tired of taking allopathic treatment without seeing any improvement, you can search for your alternative health provider by doing a simple search. There are so many licensed providers listed in this portal and the advantage is you can search for practitioners in your own locality or city. If you are in the Bay area, then there are so many professionals with their profiles listed. Visit www.althealthconnect.com today.
If you are looking for a Doula here are the contact details –
Summer Luv - Email: summerluv33@yahoo.com | Phone: 831-246-0615
Sound Therapies use sound vibrations to treat or help improve physical and mental conditions. Sound has been used for healing for thousands of years. Sound therapies have no known side affects or complications. Sound therapies include the use of music, filtered and engineered music, synthesized sounds, tuning forks, pure tones, chanting or toning, sounding, vibro-acoustic furniture, singing bowls and more.
Music-based sound therapies include The Listening Program®, The Tomatis Method, Auditory Integration Training, Joudry Sound Therapy and Samonas, among others. Tone therapies include Hemi-Sync, BioAcoustics, BioWaves, Therapeutic Listening®, Cymatics and many more.
Some therapies can be done at home, others require attendance at a clinic or a visit to a practitioner. Certifications and training vary.
Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for an in-depth library of articles on healthy eating and information on living and sustaining a healthy lifestyle. Search our database of wellness practitioners based on specialty, name or location. Our practitioner profiles allow you to review qualifications, philosophy, education and approach before making a personal connection.
If you want an appointment with a licensed Sound Therapist here are the contact details -
Ariana Lise Newcomer
Email: ariana@indigosoundworks.com | Phone: (831) 419-4724
Website: www.indigosoundworks.com
Massage therapy is one of the oldest healthcare practices. It is the practice of soft tissue manipulation. Massage involves acting and manipulating the body with pressure structured, unstructured, stationary or moving tension, motion, or vibration done manually or with mechanical aids for the purpose of normalizing those tissues. These techniques affect all body systems.
The philosophy of massage therapy encompasses the concept of ris medicatrix naturae, aiding the ability of the body to heal itself and aimed at achieving or increasing health well being.
Want to read more interesting articles on alternative health medicine? Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ If you are looking for a health care specialist and are tired of taking allopathic treatment without seeing any improvement, you can search for your alternative health provider by doing a simple search. There are so many licensed providers listed in this portal and the advantage is you can search for practitioners in your own locality or city. If you are in the Bay area, then there are so many professionals with their profiles listed. Visit www.althealthconnect.com today.
If you want an appointment with a Massage Therapist here are the contact details –
Bryana Garcia
Email: mysticconnection@hotmail.com | Phone: 831 227-6294
Melissa Stone, CMT
Email: peaceandlove@balancestudio.org | Phone: 831-335-8335
Life coaching is a practice with the aim of helping clients determine and achieve personal goals. Life coaches use multiple methods that will help clients with the process of setting and reaching goals. Coaching is not targeted at psychological illness and coaches are not therapists nor consultants.
Life coaching has its roots in executive coaching, which itself drew on techniques developed in management consulting and leadership training.Life coaching also draws inspiration from disciplines including sociology, psychology, positive adult development, career counseling, mentoring and other types of counseling. The coach may apply mentoring, values assessment, behavior modification, behavior modeling, goal-setting and other techniques in helping their clients.
To assist you in your journey to wellness-based living, the Alternative Health Connection offers an in-depth database of articles. You'll find an abundance of information on topics ranging from alternative and complimentary practices and therapies to information on health conditions, natural health, nutrition and self-care. We are constantly adding to our library of articles, so visit often and tell your friends about this rich body-mind-spirit resource. Our library is a reflection of our wellness provider community. If you're an alternative health professional and would like to submit articles as a contributing member, please write in to us. Visit our website http://www.althealthconnect.com/
If you want an appointment with a Life Coach here are the contact details –
Maureen Vantress, MA
Email: moslinks@yahoo.com | Phone: (209) 450-5221
Nancy Ogilvie
E
mail: nancy@inspiring-results.com | Phone: 831-421-9932
Denise Diani
Email: ddiani-friedman@comcast.net | Phone: (831) 247-6230
An esthetician specializes in the study of skin care, including facials, Microdermaabrasion, body wraps, salt glows (an exfoliation treatment), waxing as a form of hair removal, cosmetic make up service and other services with advanced training. Estheticians may work independently in a spa or salon or may assist a doctor in his or her practice.
Working with a doctor an esthetician may perform more advanced services that require a doctor’s supervision, such a deep chemical peels. In addition to performing beauty services, an esthetician must be skilled in recommending skin and body care products and retailing them to their clients.
The Alternative Health Connection is your partner in finding natural solutions to radiant health and balanced living. We are delighted to bring you a localized community calendar to assist you in connecting with alternative health events, seminars and workshops, searchable by city and zip code. So whether you're looking for events in your hometown or looking for wellness activities while you're in Santa Fe on business, we are your event connection! Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/
If you are looking for an Esthetician here are the contact details –
Tracey Lontos
Email: tracey@dwellsanctuary.org | Phone: (619) 244-8667
Website: www.dwellsanctuary.org
Sharon Williams
Email: pristineskinnew@gmail.com | Phone: (831) 462-2690
A Nutritionist is a person who works to educate and counsel clients on dietary issues. In general, anyone can choose to be a nutritionist without formal education.
However, there are certain certifications that some nutritionists pursue to further their expertise -- for example, Licensed Nutritionist, Certified Nutrition Specialist, and Certified Clinical Nutritionist.
At the Alternative Health Connection, we want to empower you by connecting you with a wealth of information on vitamins/nutritional supplements and Ayurvedic herbs. Search our database of wellness practitioners based on specialty, name or location. Our practitioner profiles allow you to review qualifications, philosophy, education and approach before making a personal connection.
Browse our in-depth database of articles from top professionals across the industry. Topics range from alternative and complementary practices to information on health conditions, natural health, nutrition and self-care.
Visit http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for more articles about vitamins/nutritional supplements offering suggested uses and dosage information including Western, Chinese and Ayurvedic herbs.
If you are looking for a Nutritionist here are the contact details –
Larry Zuccolotto
Email: lzuccolotto@ruaging.com | Phone: (831) 438-3430
Leah Hopkins, M.S., R.D.
Email: bodyinbalance@sbcglobal.net | Phone: 831-626-8694
What parents should know
by Jeremy Appleton, ND, CNS
Children who eat healthful diets rich in whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables should not need to take a daily multivitamin. But how many children truly fit that description? Even in households steeped in whole foods and nutritious cooking practices, children can be finicky eaters. Or they may live in households where a standard Western diet is consumed and junk foods are not significantly limited.
Q. Can a nutritional supplement take the place of eating a diet rich in healthful whole foods?
A. Nutrition research strongly suggests that the answer is no. But a combination of some whole foods and high-quality supplements may be the best compromise most parents can expect, one that is likely to prevent nutrient deficiencies even if it does not provide the nutritional benefits of a diet truly rich in whole foods. Children from low-income households are at risk of several nutritional deficiencies and, for them, supplementing with a high-quality multivitamin may be the best safety net preventing them from falling into nutritional deficit.
Q. When should I consult a doctor?
Some nutritional supplements and herbs can be poisonous if taken in the wrong amounts, even if they are sold over the counter or are formulated for children.
Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about the safety or efficacy of supplements for your child.
Q. What about herbal supplements?
Herbal supplements for children are not recommended on a daily basis, but instead may be considered to help address specific health concerns. For example, chamomile and mint teas can be useful for upset stomachs, and ginger syrup or tea may help a child who is nauseated.
Consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if herbal supplements are right for your child.
Q. Does my child need a multivitamin?
While most well-nourished children probably do not need a multivitamin, there appears to be no harm (and probably some benefit) from taking a good one. A high-quality multivitamin will provide at least the RDA of its key ingredients, it will contain no unnecessary additives, and it will meet its label claims for nutrient content. Consult with a healthcare provider if you have questions about how to choose a high-quality multivitamin.
A multivitamin usually provides the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of most essential vitamins and minerals. Several good children’s multivitamins are available, some in chewable form.
Children from low-income households are at the highest risk of nutritional deficiencies. Studies suggest that, in these groups, multivitamin supplementation can improve brain function and attention in school, fortify the immune system against infection, and prevent nutritional deficiency diseases such as anemia (caused by deficiency of iron or certain B-complex vitamins) and rickets (caused by vitamin D deficiency).
Improved performance on IQ tests has been observed in some children who take a daily multivitamin, compared with those who do not. However, the results of this research are not conclusive, and it may be that the children who benefited were marginally deficient in iron and had that deficiency corrected by the multivitamin.
Q. Do some children need additional vitamin or mineral supplementation?
Some children who have poor or restricted diets, liver disease, or other chronic medical problems (especially those that lead to fat malabsorption, such as cystic fibrosis) may need specific vitamin and mineral supplementation to prevent nutrient deficiencies.
Only a qualified healthcare provider should prescribe nutrients to treat a medical condition.
At the Alternative Health Connection, we want to empower you by connecting you with a wealth of information on vitamins/nutritional supplements and Ayurvedic herbs. Visit http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for more articles about vitamins/nutritional supplements offering suggested uses and dosage information including Western, Chinese and Ayurvedic herbs.
Healthy Marketplace
Our online retail community is dedicated to providing you with top quality natural and green products from individuals, stores and suppliers who are passionate about health and wellness. Click here to view products & services that support your journey toward a harmonious and healthy life.
If you need Vitamins & Supplements here are the contact details –
Way of Life
Email: wayoflife2232@sbcglobal.net | Phone: 831.464.4113
Prepare for life’s eventualities by stocking up on these everyday essentials
by Nancy Gottesman
Health mishaps happen. Whether it’s a twisted ankle on the stairs or something as serious as chest pains, having the appropriate medical supplies on hand help you stay prepared. “People either do not have any first-aid items or the ones they do have are insufficient or expired,” says Manoj Singh, MD, assistant professor of family medicine at the University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine in Ohio.
Here are ten must-haves for every home medicine chest:
1. Plain soap
Good ol’ soap and water is still the best way to clean minor cuts and scrapes. It works just as well as antibacterial soap—and it’s less expensive!
2. A compression wrap
If you twist your ankle or wrist, remember the RICE treatment: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. Elastic wraps, such as those made by ACE, are the compression component of the RICE equation. “These are excellent for giving support to a sprained joint,” says Jennifer Zimmer, MD, an internal medicine doctor at the Dallas Diagnostic Association and the Baylor Regional Medical Center in Plano, Texas.
3. Aspirin
Not only for headaches and hangovers, but if you're at risk for something far more serious: “If you have chest pain, chew up 325 mg of uncoated aspirin,” advises Singh. “Heart attacks can happen any time and taking aspirin as soon as possible can help reduce the damage.” Aspirin can help break down the blood clot in your artery and limit the injury to your heart. Talk to you doctor to learn your heart-disease risk.
4. Bandages (assorted sizes)
Not just for kids! You need these, as well, to keep your boo-boos and owies from becoming infected.
5. A thermometer
Experts recommend a digital thermometer over the mercury type (which are just as accurate but difficult to read). “A good thermometer can monitor for temperature elevation that could indicate infection in a wound or worsening of an illness,” says Zimmer.
6. Mild pain relievers
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for minor pain and fever. “Remember to check doses, though, as children take a dose based on their weight,” advises Singh.
7. Antibacterial ointment
Apply after cleaning a wound to help reduce infection risk and increase healing time. See Wound Healing, for more helpful products.
8. An antihistamine
To relieve minor allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching and swelling. Call 911 if you have a severe allergic reaction—such as difficulty breathing, or swelling of the tongue or lip—as an antihistamine won’t help.
9. Hydrocortisone cream
Useful for taking itch out of rashes and insect bites.
10. Phone numbers
Inside the door of your medicine cabinet, adhere contact info for your family members, doctors, pharmacy, and your local poison control center. If there is an emergency, this cost-you-nothing strategy can prove to be priceless.
Remember to check the contents of your kit every 6 to 12 months to ensure that medicines haven’t expired, and that your contact numbers are still up to date.
Finally, it's also handy to keep a first-aid kit in your car and your day-trip backpack. And think about other places a kit could be useful. Going on vacation? Remember to take one with you to the cabin, boat, or wherever else your road leads. Go well!
Healthy Marketplace
Our online retail community is dedicated to providing you with top quality natural and green products from individuals, stores and suppliers who are passionate about health and wellness. Click here to view products & services that support your journey toward a harmonious and healthy life.
Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for an in-depth library of articles on healthy eating and information on living and sustaining a healthy lifestyle.
Three supplements for healthful slimming down
by Kathleen Finn
Whether you’re struggling to lose your last 5 pounds (2.3 kilos) or embarking on a more ambitious plan to shed 20 (9 kilos) or more, start with the basics: consume fewer calories, exercise more, don’t skip meals, and start your diet with a stamp of approval from your healthcare provider. Combining these recommendations with the moderate use of safe, natural supplements may help you in your quest toward a slimmer self.
1. Hoodia—Ward off hunger
Used by the Kalahari bushmen to ward off hunger on long treks, hoodia has piqued the interest of the dieting public.
Made from the South African succulent—a cactus-like plant—hoodia theoretically affects nerve cells in the hypothalamus—a part of the brain that governs appetite—by responding to blood glucose levels. In a sense, it may trick the brain into thinking you are full. Unlike many purported weight loss herbs, hoodia is not a stimulant.
2. Sesamin—Help the liver burn excess fat
Nuts and seeds have long been hailed for their nutritional achievements of providing fiber, good fats, and protein. Now scientists have isolated sesamin—a part of sesame oil believed to play a role in encouraging weight loss.
Sesamin shows promise for its possible action of enhancing fat burning. It increases the activity of several liver enzymes that break down fatty acids. It is believed that optimizing the liver’s fat-burning capacity may promote fat loss.
3. Relora—Balance your hormones
Some researchers believe that achieving hormone balance holds the key to the weight-loss dilemma, and products such as relora, a product derived from Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense bark, claim to help in this area, though more research is needed for confirmation.
Prolonged stress raises blood levels of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal gland. In high amounts, cortisol stimulates deposits of fat in the abdomen. Manufacturers of cortisol-lowering products maintain that by keeping cortisol levels low, one can avoid weight gain around the middle. According to the manufacturers, relora is supposed to maintain healthy cortisol levels.
Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for an in-depth library of articles on healthy eating and information on living and sustaining a healthy lifestyle. Search our database of wellness practitioners based on specialty, name or location. Our practitioner profiles allow you to review qualifications, philosophy, education and approach before making a personal connection.
If you are looking for Restaurants serving Healthy Food here are the contact details
Dharma's Natural Organic Vegetarian Food
Email: dharmas@cruzio.com | Phone: (831) 462-1717
Charlie Hong Kong
Email: rudy@charliehongkong.com | Phone: (831) 426-5664
Website: www.charliehongkong.com
JiaTella's Cambodian Cuisine
Email: jason@jiatellas.com | Phone: 831.438.5005
Website: www.jiatellas.com
Get healthier with five fabulous foods
by Linda Knittel
You know improving how you eat can affect your long-term health and well-being—but you might not realize that even small changes can make a big difference. Try these foods to give yourself a health-promoting diet upgrade.
1. Pick pomegranate juice4. Look for omega-3 eggs
Omega-3 enriched eggs do not appear to increase cholesterol levels in the way regular eggs can, and in clinical studies, omega-3 eggs have been shown to actually lower blood pressure.Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for an in-depth library of articles on healthy eating and information on living and sustaining a healthy lifestyle.
If you are looking for Natural Food Stores here are the contact details –
Harvest Natural Foods
Email: harvestnaturalfoods@yahoo.com | Phone: 805-466-3202
Natural Alternative Nutrition Center
Email: bc@thenaturalalternative.net | Phone: (805) 237-8290
Russell Wilkie, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist
100% honesty is an excellent goal, but it can be difficult to maintain because of our very human anxiety (or fear) of telling the truth. In all relationships, dishonesty and withholding the truth usually adds bricks to the wall between you and your loved ones, preventing deep intimacy.
As a therapist, I regularly see clients struggle with the issue of honesty, anywhere from hiding an affair to saying niceties. Even saying you are fine to someone during the day may very well be a form of lying.
When we look at how honest we are in our lives, inevitably, questions arise for us all.
Let's look at the couple that I'll call Gary and Liz. Gary struggles with many questions on a regular basis as he attempts to appease Liz by withholding his truth: How much to tell? When to tell? What not to tell? Is it okay to ask for what I want? How honest should I, or can I be? Should I tell her I don't like that dress on her, just ignore it, or compliment her to reduce conflict? Then there is the "big" lie -- hiding his affair. Unfortunately, covering over something as damaging as an affair gets its start with the "little white lies" that he believes are okay.
Have you heard the term "a little white lie?" What does it mean to you? Does it mean that the lie is so small it won't hurt anyone? Does it mean the truth will never be known? Is Gary telling Liz that her dress looks great considered a little white lie?
Let's look at the range of lies like this:
White -- Light gray -- Dark gray -- Black
White: Gary says, "I don't care which movie we go to." Problem: He might have a preference, but he tends to say things don't matter because he wants Liz to get what she wants, usually to avoid conflict or be nice. Unfortunately, Liz is not getting the real deal -- Gary's authentic self. Eventually Gary's truth will, likely, emerge in some other more serious issues. He is laying the foundation for a brick wall between them that prevents intimacy.
Light Gray: Gary says, "That dress looks fine on you." Problem: He says this to reduce conflict or because he thinks Liz will feel good. Unfortunately, he's added another brick in the wall that prevents intimacy. If he does this too many times, then he builds a large list of things he actually doesn't like about or with Liz. These will go into his "resentment box." In a time of crisis or conflict, he will probably dump the entire box of resentments over Liz's head by bringing up seemingly unrelated issues and past hurts. This is why withholding the full truth can become poison and why many couples argue about unimportant and unrelated issues.
Dark Gray: Gary says, "I wouldn't think of having an affair with her." Problem: This one can be tricky if he deludes himself by denying that he isn't interested in another woman simply because he thinks he shouldn't be. But if he really thought deeply about this, he might very well come to see that he is interested in her (even if mildly) or feeling something for this other woman and Liz is picking up on these feelings, even though you are not consciously aware of it. This type of dishonesty occurs because of a fear of conflict, yet he has no way of knowing what the outcome would be if he were honest with Liz. Maybe if he were honest from the beginning, then the insecurity between them could be dealt with instead of being an ongoing issue.
Black: Gary says, "I am not having an affair." Problem: This is the poison that destroys. If he is discovered in such a lie then it will clearly be seen as a betrayal by Liz and will create havoc because it is so clearly a deception - that is, an intentional deception.
All of the above levels of dishonesty result in us not being fully in a relationship - not deeply and intimately connected. How intimate of a relationship can I have if it is based on false assumptions and lies about my true nature - my authentic self? If I don't state my wants or opinions or preferences, then who is the other person really having a relationship with? This process is typically the one we go through when we first begin dating someone. We get along fabulously and look for all of the ways we match, but deny or withhold the mismatches that we see. We end up bending our true-self so far in the other person's direction and presenting ourselves as what we think the other person wants that we are not being true to ourselves or honest with the other person. Later the other person says, "You're not the person I thought you were," or "You were so different when we started dating." This reaction is very common. Some people believe the other person has changed, but I believe they are finally being honest. People sometimes refer to this as the end of the honeymoon period.
If you would like to strive for more honesty and try to get to the ideal of 100% honesty, then try the exercise below. You can use this as an inventory of honesty for yourself to see how you're doing over time, or you can use it as a checklist to see where you are in a certain relationship and what you can do to clean things up.
The exercise:
Make three columns on a sheet of paper. Label the left column "White" (things I have been afraid to say, but I'm willing to risk saying). Label the middle column as "Gray" (things I think would create a very bad result). Label the right column as "Black" (things I have said to avoid conflict or protect someone).
The ultimate goal of the exercise is to get to the point where everything on the list is crossed off and you have no secrets because you have come clean. Alternatively, if you are already perfect, you can look at the categories at the end of each day and reward yourself for the times during the day when you could have added something to the dishonest list but didn't.
My disclaimer with this exercise is that I cannot be held responsible for the outcome of your choice. What I can say though, is that if the person truly loves you and there is intense commitment to the relationship, you have a stronger chance of getting a positive response. I've worked with many couples in therapy, like Gary and Liz, that have disclosed affairs (and sometimes worse) and the connection and commitment toward each other allowed for healing of the rift. It is not easy. It can be scary. It can turn out badly. You may need the presence of another person to get through it. As a couple's therapist, I have walked many people through a deep process of becoming (what one client called) "brutally honest" with each other. Some have ended their relationships because of it and some have become closer than ever. The benefit is that, when it's done, both people stand on solid ground knowing that the relationship is real and that is a comforting feeling to both people, even if it means the end of the relationship.
Years ago I made this up:
"Honesty only causes pain when it's withheld."
I put it up on my wall to remind me to pause and breath... and... tell it like it is.
I believe it's true because I've seen so much pain and betrayal from the dishonest approach in life. And those people I've known to be honest and those I've watched move in this direction are much more at ease in life and relationships.
It was Mark Twain (a little white lie, because his name was actually Samuel Clemens) that said: "If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything." This is a piece of wisdom that can put you at ease and create the deepest kind of relationship intimacy. Noticing how many times a day you could have lied and didn't can also do wonders for your self-esteem.
Browse our in-depth database of articles from top professionals across the industry.
Topics range from alternative and complementary practices to information on health conditions, natural health, nutrition and self-care.
If you want an appointment with Russell Wilkie here are the contact details –
Russell Wilkie, MFT
Email: RW@RussellWilkie.com | Phone: 408-529-1975
Website: www.RussellWilkie.com
Some 15 million Americans suffer from recurring headaches and spend millions of dollars each year for headache remedies which give only temporary relief. There are two major types of chronic headaches: the tension headache and the migraine headache.
Tension headaches are the most common type occurring at the base of the skull due to irritation of the muscles and nerves in this area. Migraine headaches are caused by the stretching of the nerves of the head. These headaches may last several hours or several days and may be mild or severe. The symptoms are: irritability, nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances and are incapacitating. There are several direct nerve involvements and nerve reflex factors which influence these headaches.
Chiropractors have been helping migraine victims for years. Chiropractic researchers have discovered that the stretched arteries and nerves causing migraines and tension headaches are stretched in the neck by vertebral misalignment. If you suffer from any of the above symptoms, seek a Chiropractor for care.
Please contact Dr. Tyler B. Greene for headache and migraine relief.
Contact details:
Email: tbgdc@sbcglobal.net | Phone: 831-757-9411
To assist you in your journey to wellness-based living, the Alternative Health Connection offers an in-depth database of articles. You'll find an abundance of information on topics ranging from alternative and complimentary practices and therapies to information on health conditions, natural health, nutrition and self-care. We are constantly adding to our library of articles, so visit often and tell your friends about this rich body-mind-spirit resource. Our library is a reflection of our wellness provider community. If you're an alternative health professional and would like to submit articles as a contributing member, please write in to us.
Want to read more interesting articles on alternative health medicine?
Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/
The basics
Carbohydrates are the most efficient fuel for energy production. They can also be stored as glycogen in muscles and the liver, functioning as a readily available energy source for prolonged, strenuous exercise. For these reasons, carbohydrates may be the most important nutrient for sports performance.
The diet has two stages:
Depletion—The athlete performs the sport to the point of exhaustion to deplete stored carbos in specific muscles. Then the athlete follows a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet for three days.
Carbo-loading—A high-carbohydrate diet (400 to 600 grams of carbohydrate per day) is eaten for three days while training is reduced.
Modified versions of this diet eliminate the depletion stage, or require a smaller amount of carbohydrate to be eaten, and appear to produce similarly effective results.
Ready, set, go! Follow the advice of a trained exercise expert when using this diet. Emphasize whole grains, starchy vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy products, and carbohydrate-replacement beverages. Reduce intake of fatty foods to achieve a relatively high-carbohydrate diet.
Why do people follow this diet?
A carbohydrate-loading diet (also known as carbo loading) is a strategy used by endurance athletes to increase muscle glycogen reserves in order to improve performance. Glycogen is the body’s storage form of glucose, the chief energy source for the body. When carbohydrates are consumed, the body changes much of them into glucose. Glucose that is not needed immediately is stored as glycogen in the muscles for later use. Normal levels of muscle glycogen are more than enough to maintain exercise lasting less than 75 minutes. However, intensive training in endurance sports lasting longer than an hour depletes muscle glycogen stores, increasing the need for carbohydrate intake to assure normal levels of blood glucose and sufficient muscle glycogen reserves.
What do the advocates say?
Research has found that carbohydrate-loading diets improve endurance athletes’ performance. Carbohydrate loading can be accomplished in two stages: the depletion stage and the carbohydrate-loading stage. On day one of the depletion stage, the athlete trains to exhaustion in his or her sport in order to deplete muscle glycogen in specific muscles. The athlete must engage in the sport during this stage because carbohydrate loading only occurs in the specific muscles exercised. For the next three days, a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet (60 to 120 grams carbohydrate) is consumed while the athlete trains moderately. During the carbohydrate-loading stage, the diet is switched to a high-carbohydrate intake (400 to 600 grams carbohydrate) for the next three days, while training time is reduced. This will result in muscle glycogen “packing,” increasing the muscle glycogen to a new, higher level.
Following a less stringent, modified carbohydrate-loading diet can eliminate potential problems with the classic carbohydrate-loading diet. The modified carbohydrate-loading plan is followed for six days prior to competition. It requires the athlete to consume a 50% carbohydrate diet for the first three days and then increase to a 70% carbohydrate diet (or 4.5 grams per pound of body weight) for the last three days before competition. The athlete begins training at a high aerobic intensity; then training time is gradually reduced on successive days.
What do the critics say?
Some problems associated with the classic carbohydrate-loading diet include increased blood cholesterol and urea nitrogen levels, which may cause problems for people susceptible to heart disease, diabetes, or kidney disease. The glycogen depletion stage may cause vitamin and mineral depletion, ketosis, the loss of lean tissue, and a reduction in training capability leading to a negative effect on performance.
Healthy Marketplace
Our online retail community is dedicated to providing you with top quality natural and green products from individuals, stores and suppliers who are passionate about health and wellness. Click here to view products & services that support your journey toward a harmonious and healthy life.
Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for an in-depth library of articles on healthy eating and information on living and sustaining a healthy lifestyle.
If you are looking for a company dealing with Fitness/Health/Beauty here are the contact details -
Wellness Lifestyles
Email: rondamico@sbcglobal.net / conniedamico@sbcglobal.net
Phone: 831-426-1123
Website: www.myNikken.net/damico
Allergies are responses mounted by the immune system to a particular food, inhalant (airborne substance), or chemical. In popular terminology, the terms “allergies” and “sensitivities” are often used to mean the same thing, although many sensitivities are not true allergies. The term “sensitivity” is general and may include true allergies, reactions that do not affect the immune system (and therefore are not technically allergies), and reactions for which the cause has yet to be determined.
Some non-allergic types of sensitivity are called intolerances and may be caused by toxins, enzyme inadequacies, drug-like chemical reactions, psychological associations, and other mechanisms. Examples of well-understood intolerances are lactose intolerance and phenylketonuria. Environmental sensitivity or intolerance are terms sometimes used for reactions to chemicals found either indoors or outdoors in food, water, medications, cosmetics, perfumes, textiles, building materials, and plastics. Detecting allergies and other sensitivities and then eliminating or reducing exposure to the sources is often a time-consuming and challenging task that is difficult to undertake without the assistance of an expert.
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms may include itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; headache; fatigue; postnasal drip; runny, stuffy, or itchy nose; sore throat; dark circles under the eyes; an itchy feeling in the mouth or throat; abdominal pain; diarrhea; and the appearance of an itchy, red skin rash. Life-threatening allergic reactions—most commonly to peanuts, nuts, shellfish, and some drugs—are uncommon. When they do occur, initial symptoms may include trouble breathing and difficulty swallowing.
Take action to control your allergies.
Breathe easy by learning more about how to manage symptoms. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful:
Clean it up
Control household allergens like dust, mold, and animal dander to reduce your overall allergic load
Help children avoid allergies with beneficial bacteria
Take a probiotic supplement containing high-potency beneficial bacteria (probiotics) during pregnancy and give them to newborns to help reduce the risk of children developing allergies
Watch what you eat
Work with a specialist in food sensitivities to see if certain foods are causing your allergies
See a healthcare provider
Find a professional to help you manage your allergies
These recommendations are not comprehensive and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or pharmacist. Continue reading the full allergies and sensitivities article for more in-depth, fully-referenced information on medicines, vitamins, herbs, and dietary and lifestyle changes that may be helpful.
Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for an in-depth library of articles on healthy eating and information on living and sustaining a healthy lifestyle. Search our database of wellness practitioners based on specialty, name or location. Our practitioner profiles allow you to review qualifications, philosophy, education and approach before making a personal connection.
Given below are contact details of some Green Biz which might interest you.
Terra Nova Ecological Landscaping
Email: ken@terranovalandscaping.com | Phone: 831.425.3514
Website: www.terranovalandscaping.com
Paragon Designs
Email: tbrajko@paragonarchitects.com | Phone: 805-541-9486
EcoCruz
Email: anna@ecoact.org | Phone: (831) 426-5925
Kathleen Finn
Your skin is the barometer of your health, and lifestyle choices literally make their mark on your face. No need to cover your face or panic. Just follow the commonsense guidelines below for skin preservation, and you’ll be sure to radiate vitality and vigor.
Create a consistent skin-care routine. Regular cleansing rids the skin of excess oils and dirt and sloughs off dead skin cells.
· If you have dry skin, use a mild exfoliant with a heavier moisturizing cream that contains nut oils or aloe.
· If your skin is oily, occasionally use an exfoliant with astringent properties and finish with a light, water-based moisturizer. Tea tree and citrus oils help tone skin between washings.
· If you battle with problem skin, avoid using harsh exfoliants on breakouts. Instead, apply a deep-cleansing mask and a moisturizer with antibacterial ingredients such as tea tree oil and lavender.
Let the sun shine, but choose your exposure carefully.
· A face cream with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher should be a mandatory part of your beauty regimen. Look for a cream that matches your skin type and wear it even on cloudy days.
· Your body does, however, need some sun exposure, as the UV rays from sunlight trigger vitamin D synthesis in the skin. A 20-minute walk or bask in the early morning or late afternoon sun should suffice; you might prefer to wear a hat and let your arms and legs get the rays.
You are what you eat and drink and breathe, so consider this:
· A healthy diet full of antioxidants A, C, and E helps fend off free radicals from everyday exposure to air pollutants, sun, and stress. Foods rich in vitamin A and vitamin C include brightly colored fruits and vegetables, such as squashes, sweet potatoes, carrots, leafy greens, tomatoes, strawberries, and kiwi. Vitamin E is found in a variety of nuts and their oils and wheat germ.
· Exercise increases circulation, which helps nourish collagen fibers that give skin its appearance of plumpness, while perspiration from your workout cleanses the skin.
· Water hydrates the skin from the inside out, so practice drinking enough water that you rarely get thirsty.
· Avoid smoking and breathing secondhand smoke, which causes blood vessels to constrict, inhibiting blood flow and starving the skin of oxygen.
Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for an in-depth library of articles on healthy eating and information on living and sustaining a healthy lifestyle. The Alternative Health Connection is your partner in finding natural solutions to radiant health and balanced living. We are delighted to bring you a localized community calendar to assist you in connecting with alternative health events, seminars and workshops, searchable by city and zip code. So whether you're looking for events in your hometown or looking for wellness activities while you're in Santa Fe on business, we are your event connection!
Healthy Marketplace
Our online retail community is dedicated to providing you with top quality natural and green products from individuals, stores and suppliers who are passionate about health and wellness. Click here to view products & services that support your journey toward a harmonious and healthy life.
If you are looking for store dealing with Natural Skin Care products here are the contact details –
Ah, Natural
Email: ahnaturalsc@aol.com | Phone: 831-234-1619
Website: www.ahnaturalskincare.com
Marriage & Family Therapy is also referred to as couple and family therapy and family systems therapy, is a branch of psychotherapy that works with families and couples in intimate relationships to nurture change and development. It tends to view change in terms of the systems of interaction between family members. It emphasizes family relationships as an important factor in psychological health.
What the different schools of family therapy have in common is a belief that, regardless of the origin of the problem, and regardless of whether the clients consider it an "individual" or "family" issue, involving families in solutions is often beneficial. This involvement of families is commonly accomplished by their direct participation in the therapy session. The skills of the family therapist thus include the ability to influence conversations in a way that catalyzes the strengths, wisdom, and support of the wider system.
In the field's early years, many clinicians defined the family in a narrow, traditional manner usually including parents and children. As the field has evolved, the concept of the family is more commonly defined in terms of strongly supportive, long-term roles and relationships between people who may or may not be related by blood. Family therapy has been used effectively in the full range of human dilemmas; there is no category of relationship or psychological problem that has not been addressed with this approach.
To assist you in your journey to wellness-based living, the Alternative Health Connection offers an in-depth database of articles. You'll find an abundance of information on topics ranging from alternative and complimentary practices and therapies to information on health conditions, natural health, nutrition and self-care. We are constantly adding to our library of articles, so visit often and tell your friends about this rich body-mind-spirit resource. Our library is a reflection of our wellness provider community. If you're an alternative health professional and would like to submit articles as a contributing member, please write in to us.
Want to read more interesting articles on alternative health medicine? Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/
If you want an appointment with a Marriage & Family Therapist here are the contact details –
Karen Gless
Email: karen@sextherapydoctor.com | Phone: 858-273-2980
Website: www.sextherapydoctor.com
Debra Sloss, MA
Email: debrasloss@pacbell.net | Phone: (831) 425-3130
Website: www.debraslosstherapist.com
Sheila Kreifels, M.S. LMFT
Email: dandshe@sbcglobal.net | Phone: (408) 249-3606
Website: www.intransition.com
Amy Barton-Cayton
Email: amy@balancedmind.us | Phone: 831-457-6684
Website: www.psychophysicaltherapy.com
Reiki is a form of spiritual healing which emerged in the early 20th century in Japan. Reiki is defined as a complementary healing art for the treatment of body, mind and emotional conditions. Reiki Practitioners called Reiki Masters use a technique similar to the laying on of hands, which will channel "healing energy" through their palms to bring about healing for themselves or others.
Reiki believes in a universal life force energy which can be accessed by practitioners and believers to induce a healing effect. The Reiki Master uses this healing energy to activate or enhance the natural healing processes of an individual through their own so-called powers which are assisted by the “intention” and beliefs of their patient.
To assist you in your journey to wellness-based living, the Alternative Health Connection offers an in-depth database of articles. You'll find an abundance of information on topics ranging from alternative and complimentary practices and therapies to information on health conditions, natural health, nutrition and self-care. We are constantly adding to our library of articles, so visit often and tell your friends about this rich body-mind-spirit resource. Our library is a reflection of our wellness provider community. If you're an alternative health professional and would like to submit articles as a contributing member, please write in to us.
Logon to http://www.althealthconnect.com/ for an in-depth library of articles on healthy eating and information on living and sustaining a healthy lifestyle. Search our database of wellness practitioners based on specialty, name or location. Our practitioner profiles allow you to review qualifications, philosophy, education and approach before making a personal connection.
If you want an appointment with a licensed Reiki Master here are the contact details –
David Blakely
Email: drblakely@earthlink.net | Phone: (831) 325-344