Weight Management Using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Diets fail too often. People set lofty exercise goals with no follow-through because it's easier to not do it. There are so many things that go wrong with a traditional diet and exercise program that it's no wonder that more people are looking for better ways to lose weight and get healthy once and for all. Psychologists have always recognized the need to change the entire person versus traditional diets and exercise routines. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one way that therapists are working to create a change from the inside out with people who need to lose excess weight and find a healthy lifestyle.

The mind body connection to weight management is much stronger than many people realize. Dieting and exercise only go as far as a person's mind will allow. Someone who lacks ambition and follow through is not going to see as much success from a weight loss program as someone who is driven to succeed. The use of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy works to change the thinking first, and then the physical appearance will change because the mindset has been altered. By essentially re-programming and retraining the mind-body connection, therapists are able to help people lose weight, get healthy, and maintain that healthy lifestyle on into the future.

Yo-yo diets are a prime example of what happens when you try to change the body without the mind being a part of the change. People often do quite well for a short time when they decide to change what they eat. Eventually, however, their old habits take hold and the weight returns because their mindset has not been changed at all. It has been shown that people who succeed at obesity management and weight management are those who undergo therapy or some form of counseling at the same time to get their mind in the right place while also working on their body. When diets, exercise, medications, or even surgery aren't enough to keep people thin and healthy, CBT can add that extra push to help give people the healthy lifestyle that they have always needed.

Having a direct relationship with a therapist can help to create a strong mind-body connection to weight management and help people to produce better results because they have an individual plan. Through things like CBT, meditation, and self-monitoring, people can learn to change the way they think, which then allows them to change the way they eat, exercise, and live their lives. The goal is the same across the board: creating a healthy lifestyle and changing a whole person so that the health is both physical and mental, rather than focusing on the physical by itself.

The reason that diets often don't work and that exercise routines are always 'good ideas' and little more is because the habits and mindset of the people trying to lose weight are unchanged. Until the entire person is addressed and a whole new healthy lifestyle for mind and body is created, weight loss may be fleeting, at best.

Physical Therapy and Sports Injury Treatments - Recognize Various Forms

If we hear about physical therapy, we will sometimes associate it with injuries obtained through sports activities. Athletes or people who train very hard for a competition or for merely achieving a healthy body are often injured. To treat these injuries, physical therapy is often applied. However, the physical therapy sports injury possibilities are very diverse, because the people who go for the therapy comes from different ages, gender, and they have different problems. Specialties in physical therapy are therefore needed to tend for each individual's problems. They have to be trained specifically according to their specialties so that they can accommodate the diverse differences among the patients. The following paragraphs will serve as a reference of how physical therapy sports injury cases are handled differently from one to another.

Perhaps the most usual physical therapy sports injury possibility is, in nature, orthopedic. It is very logical because there is little chance of damaging the muscles without affecting the bone or skeletal system of a person. Therefore when physical therapy is administered, therapists have to change the bone system as well to recover the damaged muscles. They are trained specifically about musculoskeletal system and also how to treat injuries pertaining to it. Besides, they must also know how to handle bone disorder or any muscle and bone problems. The patients in this circumstance are mostly those who have amputations, multiple sclerosis, and also arthritis or joint pain. They will be handled by orthopedic sports injury physical therapists.

Another category that the physical therapy sports injury covers is children's injuries. This is because children are very vulnerable to injuries and their number keeps increasing in the patient list. Children can be easily injured when they have to withstand undue pressure while they are playing with their friends. For example, they sometimes force themselves to play with their peers although they are still recovering from an illness. Inactivity among children can also cause injuries, because they do not have a healthy body. If they rarely exercise, there is a higher chance that they will be injured while doing vigorous exercises. Moreover, these children are in the rapid-growth stage, so the treatment to cure the injuries are very important. This accounts for the reason why there is a specific situation for physical therapy sports injury for children.

Although women were previously looked as inferiors, their role is becoming more significant in our society from time to time. There are more and more of them becoming national athletes and compete with men athletes. However, although they are now very active, it does not reduce the possibility of them getting injured to zero. There is a specialized physical therapy sports injury situation for women. Women have different bone and muscle structure compared to men, so the specialist must understand the structure of women's very well. The injured women will also get special treatment that can cure the injuries faster.

There are diverse physical therapy sports injury situations and each one needs to be looked carefully. Different patients will require different physical therapy and in order for the injuries to dissipate immediately, physical therapist must look into each physical therapy sports injury situation carefully.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety - Does It Work?

Will cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety be effective? Understanding the methodology behind this type of therapy is an important first step to answering this question. CBT is typically engaged in for a specific period of time and with a specific goal in mind, unlike talk therapy or psychoanalysis, which could continue for years. The goal is to modify thoughts that underlie unwanted behaviors.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is founded on the premise that behaviors are responses to our own thoughts, rather than responses to external events. Because thoughts are learned, we can isolate and unlearn our negative thoughts. After we are able to establish a positive pattern of thinking, our negative reactions will stop. Under the care of a professional therapist, cognitive behavioral therapy breaks down a big problem into smaller, more manageable problems. This allows the patient and therapist to work together to resolve these smaller issues. For example:

Jim is a hypochondriac. He deals with imaginary aches and pains on a daily basis. He visits his doctor frequently with new symptoms for which the doctor can find no cause; nevertheless, Jim continues to be certain that he has a life threatening problem. Jim puts a lot of time in on the internet, searching websites for more information about various symptoms and illnesses.

Jim and his CBT therapist would go through a process of isolating and articulating his negative thoughts, and then putting positive thoughts in their place. Jim and his therapist might come up with this solution:

"The aches and pains are all in my mind. I know my body is strong and healthy, because it has been fully checked out by my doctor. Because I am confident of my good heath, I am really looking forward to getting back to active living. I will let my pains go, because they are not in my body, but rather in my mind. Instead of simply going home and going to bed, I intend to revel in my new found strength and vitality by going on an energetic walk."

This illustrates the process of replacing negative with positive thoughts in order to modify behaviors, even though it is an extremely optimistic example. It is easy to see that cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety does have potential to help sufferers. Working with a trained therapist is critical to the success of a CBT approach. People who suffer from anxiety often hold onto their beliefs with a lot of conviction. Trying new and more healthy ways of thinking is what the trained professional will be coaxing the patient to do. This type of therapy would be extremely challenging were it not for that professional guidance.

So is there a self help way to do cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety? Strictly speaking, no. But framing solutions much like CBT is an approach that is common with a number of self help options. Such an approach includes:

• Identify negative thinking
• Acknowledge that perceived threats are in your mind -- not real.
• Look for another approach to thinking that points to healthier behaviors.

As you are considering your self help options, it will be useful to understand the components of cognitive behavioral therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety can be expensive, so for this and many other reasons, a sufferer may want to select a self help option. Look for options that focus on the current problem (not options that delve into a person's past) and for options that encourage the sufferer to move slowly and thoughtfully toward healthier mental patterns. Neither CBT nor similar solutions are fast fixes. Even though cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety takes time and effort, it is not as lengthy a process as some other forms of therapy. With dedication and perseverance, cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety can and does work for many people.

Testosterone Therapy Effects On Aging Show Significant Benefits for Older Men

For men in their later years who are going through andropause, a potentially effective way to combat the symptoms of aging is through testosterone therapy. Its effects can help to significantly improve a patient's lifestyle and personal wellbeing.

As early as the age of 25, the body's production of hormones begins to decline at a steady pace. Testosterone is an anabolic hormone and is essential for the preservation and growth of muscle and bone mass and strength.

Andropause or hypogonadism occurs when there is a decreased activity in the gonads. The low production of testosterone has many physical and psychological effects. As the body produces less testosterone, men may experience lower energy levels and be unable to engage in the same activities they used to enjoy in their youth.

Low testosterone levels can also lead to symptoms such as fatigue, erectile dysfunction, depression and anxiety. Physical performance and overall health diminishes as well, making the body more susceptible to diseases and illnesses.

One way to prevent the symptoms of aging is through testosterone and HGH therapy. Human growth hormone (HGH) can help increase muscle mass and strength, and stimulate the healthy functioning of internal organs and cell regeneration. On the other hand, through testosterone therapy, the effects of low testosterone levels due to andropause can be alleviated.

Health Benefits of Testosterone and HGH Therapy

Undergoing HGH therapy is as simple and has many health benefits that can help older men maintain a healthy lifestyle. Hormone replacement therapy can give the body the hormones it needs to function and repair the damage caused by aging. It also increases calcium retention, protein synthesis, helps maintain pancreatic islets, reduces glucose intake of the liver, and helps maintain and stimulate the immune system.

HGH therapy can prevent many of the issues related to aging, such as fatigue, muscle loss, and dry skin, as well as the loss of physical strength and muscle mass. Lower energy levels, combined with a slower metabolism, can prevent older men from engaging in physical activity. This can then lead to weight gain and other issues such as obesity, high cholesterol levels, and heart problems.

Testosterone and HGH replacement therapy can also help improve bone density. One of the effects of aging is a decrease in body's ability to retain calcium, which it needs to maintain a healthy bone structure. While calcium supplements can be used to augment the body's requirements, HGH can ensure that the body is able to retain and efficiently use calcium. This can prevent the development of conditions such as osteoporosis and other bone diseases.

While the decreased production of testosterone is natural as men become older there's no need to suffer through its symptoms. Through testosterone therapy, the effects of aging can be slowed, and older men can enjoy a fuller, more active lifestyle.

An Effective Dry Skin Therapy Should Nourish Your Skin Without Making it Greasy Or Clog Your Pores

Dryness can make your skin look dull and unattractive; hence, if you want your skin to be soft, smooth and radiant, you need to find an effective dry skin therapy that moisturizes without clogging yours pores or leaving greasy residue. Finding such a product in the overcrowded skincare market is not an easy task; hence, to make the search easier for you, this article is going to tell you the ingredients to look for.

There are several factors that can cause dryness; it could be as a result of your natural skin-type. It could also be caused by the weather such as winter; other factors include general neglect of your body and the aging process. Irrespective of the cause, dryness can actually damage your skin; it causes itching, flaking, redness and inflammation. Hence, a good dry skin therapy should be able to target these problems.

You will do yourself a lot of good by avoiding products that contain alcohol; alcohol strips your body of its natural oil and moisture, thereby making your skin drier. You should also avoid any dry skin therapy that contains mineral oil; this could be listed on the label of the product as petrolatum, paraffin wax or liquid paraffin. Mineral oil is widely used as moisturizer, but the truth is that it causes dryness in the long run.

Mineral oil does not moisturize; it is too greasy and clogs your pores thereby, causing breakouts (acne). Other harmful ingredients that can make your skin drier include parabens and fragrances. In fact the best dry skin therapy is found among natural products; natural products contain ingredients that are compatible with your body making them effective and safe.

Some of the natural ingredients you should look for include Babassu, Maracuja, Macadamia oil, Grapeseed oil Avocado oil, Natural Vitamin E and Jojoba oil. These are essential moisturizing oils that help to nourish and rejuvenate your skin making it supple (velvet-like), smooth and radiant. They are also light emollients that will not clog your pores or make your body greasy; these ingredients are also effective at soothing and healing redness/inflammation associated with dryness.

Apart from using a dry skin therapy that contains the natural ingredients mentioned here, you should also maintain a healthy life style; eat good diets, drink lots of water and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol.

For more information on other vital natural ingredients that will help make your skin beautiful, healthy and younger, visit my website.

Discover the best dry skin therapy today.

Learn About the Best Natural Dry Skin Therapy Treatment

Dry skin therapy is many and varied nowadays. There are so many products claiming to be able to cure your dry skin problems, however you should be very careful which ones you choose as some of them contain ingredients that could make this problem even worse.

There are several factors that can cause this problem, chief of those are climatic weather conditions, such as cold, windy and hot temperatures, dehydrated skin, not drinking sufficient water, and using treatments that contain alcohol, parabens, mineral oils which are extremely damaging causing even further dryness to your already dry skin. Aging is also a factor.

Alcohol strips the skin of its natural acid mantle causing further dryness, parabens also causes dryness and mineral oil clogs the pores leading to dry unhealthy skin. In order to correct this problem which makes your skin dry there are certain substances and things you can do to correct this problem it moist, supple and healthy looking.

A good dry skin therapy should be able to replenish the body's natural oil and nutrients. They should contain pure natural oils and moisturizers to replenish and rejuvenate the dry skin making it supple and healthy.

Do not use harsh chemical based dry skin therapy. As it will cause problems such as wrinkles, fine lines and sagging skin, however read the label of any product you purchase to take care of your dry skin.

Dry skin therapy should consist of a deep active hydrating mask that will deeply penetrate your skin replenishing it with lost moisture.

There are certain cutting edge, newly discovered ingredients that have been proven through scientific research to deeply moisturize the skin replenishing it and making it supple.

Here are some key ingredients to look for in the skin hydrating mask to give your skin back some moisture. Look for Avocado oil, Active Manuka Honey, Jojoba and Macadamia oil. as well as Rigin. These have been proven in clinical trials to deeply hydrate the skin giving it a fabulous glow.

Make sure that the natural ingredients are in a high concentration as this is the only way it will be effective. You want to ensure your skin will be repaired for the long term.

Always look for natural active ingredients that will repair your skin and provide it with deep moisturizing. Using the best natural products, eating healthy, drinking lots of water and staying out of the sun unnecessarily are sure fire ways to replenish and nourish your skin.

Healthy Living Using Polarity Therapy

What is polarity therapy? This is something that is used off of the human energy process. It comprises of the electromagnetic patterns that are used in mental, emotional, and physical responses. When someone is sick, it is said that the human energy is in poor condition and it needs to be repaired with this process. When using the energy that is based in bodywork, exercise, dieting, and being aware, polarity therapy is going to give the body a stronger human energy field.

This procedure was first used by Randolph Stone who published a total of seven works by 1954 that talked about what he found in his research into using energy in the healing art form. He found that touch, diet, movement, sounds, attitudes, and relationships as well as the things that happen in life experiences affect the human energy field. He used his findings and theories during his medical career in Chicago and had a great deal of success with the majority of the patients. After treatment, some of Stone's students carried on his work and in 1984 the American polarity Therapy Association was discovered and since then, this process began and used a lot in the form of medicine and has been more diverse than when it was first created.

Our energy is supposed to flow smoothly and clearly. When it does, the person is said to be healthy. However, blockages in the flow of energy can occur due to stress or other factors in life. When this does happen, a body will become less healthy causing pain and some illness to occur. It is going to look for blockages and will try to get rid of them and this will allow the energy to flow free again. A usual polarity therapy session can take anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half. In this time, there will be different types of touch and speaking interactions that will happen.

The professional will use degrees of touch on the patient in the form of light and hard in order to help their muscles relax and this will help to fight stress. The therapist will also try to make the person more aware of their energy in the body and this will help them to be more aware of the energy that they have. By doing this, it makes the patient more relaxed.

Polarity therapy is a great cure for so many people and has great success in the form of stress relief. After the session, a person will feel more relaxed and happy.

Healthy Eating and Well Being for the Complementary Therapy Client

The "eat healthier" message is getting through to people. But they are struggling with it. What's healthy and what's not? How balanced is balanced? What exactly does 5-a-day mean?

Take water for instance. As we are made up of at least 60% water, it's no surprise that water is important to us. But do you know just how important it is to your body? Making sure that we drink enough water better helps your body to achieve many things such as:

1. Balanced body fluids: Too little water can reduce the effectiveness of many of the body's functions such as digestion, nutrient distribution and even body temperature.

2. Calorie reduction: Water has no calories and drinking water in place of alternatives can reduce a person's calorie intake. Drinking extra water can also make you feel full and may reduce the urge to eat the treat you had been thinking of.

3. Improve the appearance of your skin: Your skin contains a surprising amount of water. If you are dehydrated, your skin can look dry and wrinkled.

4. More energy: Dehydrated muscles can cause muscle fatigue which is why it is really important to drink water before and during exercise.

5. Keeps you "regular": Good hydration keeps your bowels functioning well and prevents constipation.

6. Improved kidney function: Your kidneys need a good supply of water to effectively clear waste through your systems

I am sure that you will not have been surprised to read that drinking enough water is important. However, there are many other aspects of healthy eating that might surprise you. For instance:

1. Artificial sweeteners may not be so good for you after all: Research has suggested that artificial sweeteners can clog the liver to the extent that it causes damage. As the liver helps in burning fat and losing weight, artificial sweeteners may actually be producing the opposite effect.

2. Potatoes are a vegetable that provide a great source of vitamins and fibre. In fact they are such a good source of nutrition for the body that it has been suggested that you could live off of just potatoes and water. However, did you know that potatoes do not form part of the recommended 5-a-day?

3. Cereal may not be a healthy start to the day after all. A study by Which? found that only one of the 100 leading brands of cereals had healthy levels of fat, sugar and salt and 22 of the cereals contained more sugar per serving than a jam doughnut.

Understanding how to eat healthily is surprisingly complex. So much so, that to practise professionally as a Nutritional Therapist you have to undertake a minimum 3 year degree programme.

Nevertheless, many people are looking for answers and for guidance about how that can eat better. And the people most likely to be looking for this help are the people who are already doing things to improve their health and wellbeing. They take regular massages, they use Reflexology, Aromatherapy, Indian Head Massage,... They're your clients.

If you want to help your clients better understand nutrition and healthy eating then there is an alternative to a 3-year degree course - the ITEC Award in Healthy Eating & Wellbeing for Complementary Therapy Clients. This short course gives you the qualification you need to join any of the leading professional associations and be registered with the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council. You will be able to provide information on the maintenance of health and wellbeing for clients as well considering the nutrients required for a healthy diet plus deficiencies, disorders and key illnesses associated with diet.

A Scientific Breakthrough in Anti-Aging Therapy - DPL Light

Fretting about those bothersome pimples and blemishes? The LED lights used in the DPL Therapy System aid in fighting bacteria and increasing blood circulation, which in turn helps in the healing process. Some customers even testify that it helps to diminish scars!

You may have heard of DPL Therapy, which uses red and infrared LEDs for skin care, but want to know more about its effectiveness, safety, and reliability. We understand your concerns and would like to demonstrate how it can be used to give you the skin tone, texture, and appearance you've always wanted. Let us show you more about the wonders of this revolutionary treatment.

DPL Therapy is safe for all skin types. The number of treatments needed may vary depending on your individual situation.

DPL Therapy can be use to address these and many other skin conditions:

- Sun damage
- Skin degeneration due to smoking
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Crow's feet
- Blemishes
- Age Spots

The creators of the DPL Therapy System pride themselves in being able to offer an affordable, pain-free approach to obtaining beautiful skin. Unlike lasers or other harmful skin treatments, It is non-thermal, non-ablative, and non-invasive. It penetrates deep into the skin to stimulate fibroblasts for the purpose of creating collagen and elastic. These wavelengths provide safe, healthy treatments.

The infrared light produced by LED wavelengths, aka photo rejuvenation, stimulates fibroblast cell activity in the skin, which increases the production of collagen and elastin-the proteins responsible for your skin's tone and elasticity. The effects of infrared LED light therapy on the skin and body have been reported in over 2000 scientific reports and documents.

The main property of the infrared waves is that they circumnavigate the epidermis and are then absorbed throughout the dermis, causing dermal heating. This, combined with infrared waves has both instantaneous and long-term effects. The immediate effect is thermal-induced collagen contraction, which may cause mild and possibly short-term skin tightening and wrinkle reduction. More importantly, the long lasting effect is skin rejuvenation, which takes place for up to six month after the initial heating. This may lead to a longer-term improvement in wrinkles and some skin tightening. On average, wrinkle improvements are moderate: small and medium wrinkles and acne scars (especially pitted ones) often noticeably improve. Deep wrinkles, especially those due to long term facial movements, are less likely to get much better.

It has the added benefit of being complimentary to other skin care treatments such as Nuance micro current toner. Nuance tones and tightens your facial muscles while the DPL Therapy System provides a host of wonderful rewards to your skin including lessening pore size, increasing circulation, reducing redness, and smoothing skin texture. Using DPL Therapy in conjunction with Nuance micro current toner can help you to maintain a healthy, vibrant, and youthful appearance.

The Leds used in the DPL Therapy System are rated for 2500 hours making the system long lasting and economical.

There are truly many wonders to the DPL Therapy System. What more can your skin ask for?

Why Consider Therapy and Counseling?

Psychological therapy and counseling can help you deal with any issues or problems you find that you can not deal with on your own. Entering into therapy does not mean that you have serious psychological problems or that you are "crazy". On the contrary, seeking help is the first step to regaining your life and helping you learn new ways to think and react. Many people find that modern life is full of stress and anxiety. This is very normal and counselors and therapists are trained to teach you new ways of thinking and help you to learn the tools you need to cope with everyday stresses and anxiety causing circumstances.

Anxiety
Many people enter therapy because of anxiety. Anxiety is a mistaken feeling that you are in danger. Your body's natural fight or flight response has become changed or damaged causing you to feel threatened when no real threat exists. Anxiety can be managed several different ways. Your therapist may use talk therapy, cognitive therapy and suggest your medical doctor prescribe you anti-anxiety medications such as Xanax. A psychiatrist can prescribe medications, but a psychologist, therapist or counselor may not. Cognitive therapy is very effective for the treatment of anxiety. Your therapist helps you to learn new ways of thinking that can disrupt and avoid an anxiety response. In this way you learn to avoid anxiety by recognizing that you are safe and not in danger.

Eating Disorders
Eating disorders include compulsive overeating, anorexia and bulimia. Eating disorders have a complex mix of causes and the exact cause of them is not known. The urge to overeat or not eat enough becomes so intense that it affects your health and well being. Many people with eating disorders have a distorted view of their body images believing they are much heavier that they really are. Compulsive overeating may have psychological roots related to stress and anxiety. Eating disorders can be treated with a combination of therapies and sometimes the addition of medication.

Talk Therapy
Sometimes you need someone who is removed from your everyday life to talk to. Talk therapy helps you work through your problems and find solutions to issues that are stressing you out. Many people feel freer talking to a therapist or counselor because they are not in their daily lives. Talk therapy can help you prevent anxiety and other psychological issues because you get your problems out in the open and your therapist helps you learn new ways of coping that are healthy. Therapy and counseling is not just for people who are experiencing serious psychological issues. It is one of the most effective ways to deal with the stress of modern life and a healthy choice for anyone.

What Is Bioresonance Therapy?

Bioresonance therapy was invented in Germany in 1977 and is used successfully in 55 countries worldwide. Today there are thousands of bioresonance therapy devices used around the world by doctors and health practitioners.

Bioresonance therapy has been found to be highly effective in treating many ailments, such as allergies, skin problems, chemical and heavy metal toxicity and other conditions including food, drug and alcohol addiction.

Significant new findings in science and technology have generated astounding innovations, which are now being applied to medicine.

In modern times, we can easily catch images and videos through the air as well as speak to each other tens of thousands of kilometers apart through telephones and computer systems. In other areas too, we can easily see rapid technological improvements.

Findings from the area of biophysical and quantum mechanics and quantum physics made available incredible options and have absolutely led to remarkable developments in technology. These findings are useful to make clear the basis of bioresonance therapy.

E = M*C squared is the relationship between matter and energy as we fully understand it from the genius of Albert Einstein. Every form of matter is made up of energy and also emits energy. Each and every substance and every single cell of every part of the human body emits their energy too. This includes viruses, bacterias, allergens as well as substances that are beneficial to the body. They all have a highly specific, typical wavelength or frequency with entirely individual attributes. This is termed the 'frequency pattern'.

Cells communicate amongst each other - this is the way in which the frequency pattern is formed. We all live in an age of communication and information. Your body functions and regulates by itself because of communication and the communication exchanges amongst the various cells of the body. This cell communications through 'flashes of light' and is by way of specific frequencies. In a healthy body, each cell can carry out its task and exchange information unhindered. Then again, stress induced substances or perhaps impacts can get in the way or obstruct this kind of communication between cells. Interfering substances such as chemical toxins, infections, germs, parasites, volatile organic compounds, pesticides and things that trigger allergies are able to disrupt communication between the cells. The following can result in organic (physical) changes. This disturbed cell interaction prevents those cells performing effectively and we notice evidence of this through non-specific changes in well-being, both mental and physical exhaustion, persistent tiredness, skin disturbances and eruptions, irritable digestive tract and even allergic reactions.

Dry Skin Therapy - Protect Your Skin During The Cold Winter Months And Keep It Supple And Smooth

Dry skin is very uncomfortable. It sometimes feels stiff and itchy. Finding an effective dry skin therapy can be difficult especially when you read the label of most of the ones being sold on the market today and see the list of ingredients in them. If it contains mineral oil don't use it on your skin.

Many products make big promises which they cannot seem to keep. After using those well advertised moisturizer you are still left with dry, itchy, flaky skin. These poor-performing lotions or creams should be banned; however there are more of them being manufactured each year.

The price of a product does not mean it will be more effective. Many brand name products that sell for high price does not perform as expected. I have tried and tested many products ranging from $5.00 to $100 and have a difficult time finding one that really works

The bottom line is the ingredient in a dry skin therapy is the important component that is missing from most of these products. Natural organic ingredients that are extracted from nature are essential to effectively treating your dry skin problem.

Here are a few hints on what ingredients to avoid:

1. Mineral Oil
2. Dioxane
3. Parabens
4. Fragrances
5. Alcohol

These substances will not help moisturize your skin and make it supple and smooth. They will instead make it dry, wrinkled, irritated and can lead to inflammation.

What you need to moisturize your skin is natural oils and emollients. Here are a list of natural oils and emollients you want to look for in your dry skin therapy:

Grapeseed Oil - This is a powerful antioxidant which creates an invisible layer on your skin, to retain moisture. It is very effective for rejuvenating the skin around the eyes and has also been proven to diminish stretch marks on the skin. Grapeseed oil is rich in linoleic acid and many other essential oils which are necessary for skin health, and also contains natural vitamin E.

Jojoba Oil - It deeply moisturizes the skin and makes it feel soft, smooth and velvet-like. It reduces wrinkles and stretch marks. The make-up of jojoba oil is very close to that of human sebum, the oil secreted by the skin. Making it easily accepted by our skin. If you have oily, dry or combination skin, you can rest assured. Jojoba oil actually helps to balance your skin's sebum, so it moisturizes dry skin and limits the oil production in oily skin.

Active Manuka Honey - A unique type of honey originating from New Zealand. It heals the skin due to its unique enzymes that contains many healing properties. It has many healing benefits and works to repair, restore and rejuvenated dry skin.

D-Panthenol - (vitamin B5) Helps to repair skin tissue and acts as a natural moisturizer. It protects the skin naturally against sunburn, and gives relief for existing sunburn. It enhances the natural tanning process.

A dry skin therapy should be able to heal, moisturize and help your skin retain moisture. Find one that will do all of this and stop suffering from a problem for which there are solutions.

Bio-Energy - An Introduction to Bi-Aura Therapy

'Bi-Aura' is the name given to an energy therapy introduced to the UK by Maire Dennhofer in 1995 to distinguish it from other bio-energy therapies. It is a bio-energy based therapy wherein students are trained to locate blockages in a client's aura, remove them by means of specific hand techniques combined with visualisation and intention and, in so doing, allow new positive energy to flow to these energy deficient areas. The therapy encourages the client to heal his/herself by restoring the flow of balanced energy around the client's energy field.

When we experience mental, physical or emotional traumas in life they can leave indelible, sometimes invisible, imprints within our energy field. If left uncleared for long enough, they start to form blockages that manifest in mental or physical illness.

The seven main chakras of the body resemble spinning wheels and act as energy receivers, generators and transformers. The chakras supply this energy to all the different organs, muscles and tissues of our bodies. It is believed that if the seven chakras are open with energy flowing freely throughout the body then we should have a good, healthy and balanced life. When this energy becomes blocked it needs to be drawn out of the chakras and cleared from the aura, while visualising any excess, toxic energy being transformed into 'white light' as it is swept away. Bi-Aura practitioners can either do this specifically at each chakra after gathering the energy there or raise the frequency of this blocked energy upwards to another chakra and, by lightening it this way, draw it out more easily.

Bi-Aura therapy is predominantly a non-tactile therapy as practitioners are working with the movement and transformation of the client's energy field: unblocking excess energy and energising where there is deficient energy, all towards achieving balance in the aura and consequent good mental and physical health.

Bi-Aura is ideally practised on the client in four sessions. This is because there are four distinct stages that the client may experience before they are restored to better health.

The aim of the first session is to break the cycle of ill health that the client is caught up in, to stop the blockages from getting any more ingrained in the energy field than they already are.

The aim of the second session is to take the client through a 'detoxing' phase wherein they are coming out of the comfort zone of ill health and their energy is shifting out of its imbalance as it lets go of excesses and takes in energy where it needs it. This prepares the client for change and he/she may experience this as a time of emotional and physical upheaval as a result of feeling unwell because they are releasing toxins and residual blockages that could have been there for years. This can be a pivotal moment as the client decides whether to go on with treatment or go back to their comfort zone. It is critical at this time for the practitioner to persuade the client how much it will be to his/her benefit to continue on for the full course of treatment. It is important that the client is not left as an unfinished 'loose end' after this session in case they are still detoxing and blockages have not been fully removed and thus leaving them in further mental or physical stress.

The aim of the third session is to start focusing on balancing the flow of energy throughout the body and aura as the eliminations of toxins should be complete by this stage.

The fourth and final stage (unless it is apparent that the client needs more intensive therapy for a bit longer) is all about maintaining the balanced, free-flowing energy field and consequent healthy individual. It is important to ultimately have moved the client up to a higher plane of health and have set the blueprint for better health in their energy matrix.

The client's medical background, physical and emotional wellbeing and personal aims for the sessions are recorded at the beginning before the first session. Then, after the final session, recording client feedback is essential to assessing what health benefits have been achieved by the client and also how well the practitioner assessed and diagnosed them along the way for their personal record, too. Clients remain fully clothed throughout the sessions and it is best if the client visits the practitioner's environment as the atmosphere is attuned to the practitioner's higher vibrational energy.

The practitioner generally meditates and practises Qui Gong to attain and maintain a higher energy awareness level to banish negative energy and to generate positive energy towards the client. The room is best prepared by energising the atmosphere using relaxing scents and music, lit candles and starting the session with simple Qui Gong exercises to further raise the energies of client and practitioner pre-session.

Everyone is different and can react variously to the effects of Bi-Aura. People with longterm illness may have an investment in staying ill, some personal pay-off for wanting to stay within their comfort zone of ill health. For other people it can be totally life-changing. Yet for others it can just bring a sense of peace and wellbeing which could still be just what they needed.

The theory that people have to want to change is still true but Bi-Aura is good for having a knock-on effect on all areas of one's life unconsciously.

For instance, if a practitioner were to work on a pain in someone's leg ie the root chakra area and removed energy blockages therein, then that person would walk better which would then energise the sacral chakra above, which is concerned with fluidity of movement; which, in turn, would affect the solar plexus chakra above that is concerned with motivation and transformation as that person would then feel more ambitious and able to meet life's challenges; this, in turn, would lift any depression out of the heart chakra above that and the person would probably relate to other people in a more sociable, kindlier way and so it would go on, things getting better and better, physically and emotionally.

The energy shift caused by removal of an energy blockage in the lower chakras causes the excess or deficient energy balance within the chakra above to re-shuffle for the better as the energy works towards the crown chakra and the attainment of our higher self and place in the world as a healthy, enlightened individual.

What Are the Benefits to Light Exposure Therapy?

Light exposure therapy uses natural light, or light from a light-emitting device to deliver health or cosmetic benefits to the recipient. Devices such as lasers, light-emitting diodes (LED), fluorescent lights, and diachronic lights can be used to achieve benefits that range from pain management to wrinkle reduction. The Following discusses LED advanced light therapy and its cosmetic benefits for skin.

The Cosmetic Benefits of LED Therapy for Skin

Skin treatments compose one of the largest submarkets of the cosmetics industry. From creams that moisturize to scrubs that exfoliate, the number of treatments that promote healthy skin seems endless, but many skin treatments only offer a single benefit. To receive multiple benefits, consumers must invest in several treatments, or use a single treatment that offers multiple benefits, such as LED therapy. LED treatments offer the following benefits for skin:

Reduces the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles

As the skin ages, the production of collagen and elastin gradually decreases, causing fine lines and wrinkles to form. LED therapy can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by activating fibroblast cells that produce collagen and elastin-proteins that supplies the epidermis with tone and elasticity, respectively.

Reduces Excess Melanin
Melanin helps protect skin from sun damage, but the over-production of melanin could lead to brown spots that cause skin to appear splotchy. LED light exposure therapy can reduce excess melanin and leave skin looking clearer than it has in years. Advanced light therapy helps resolve melanism by reducing the production of melanin.

Decreases the Appearance of Scars

Because it reduces redness and inflammation, LED therapy can decrease the appearance of scars, sometimes making them practically invisible. The therapy can reduce scars caused by accidents, medical procedures, and aesthetic treatments.

Reduces Pore Size

Reducing pore size has become a mission for those who have oversized pores that encourage the formation of blackheads, but finding a therapy that works effectively can be difficult. Because it increases the tautness of skin by increasing the production of collagen and elastin, LED therapy is an excellent way to permanently reduce oversized pores.

Improves Sun Damaged Skin

A small amount of sun exposure can give skin a healthy glow, but too much sun exposure over several years could cause your skin to age prematurely through the development of wrinkles and sunspots. Because it improves the metabolic function in skin and stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, LED therapy can reduce the effects of sun damage.

Heals Blemishes

Various types of blemishes can be reduced or eliminated with LED treatments, including pimples, abrasions, cuts, and blemishes from eczema. LED therapy improves blemishes by increasing circulation to the skin, improving the metabolic function in skin, reducing inflammation and redness, and increasing the nutritional elements in skin.

Conclusion

LED light exposure therapy is an affordable way to receive multiple skin benefits in a single cosmetic treatment. If melanism, sun damage, acne, oversized pores, or fine lines and wrinkles are compromising your skin quality, receiving regular sessions of advanced light therapy can help.

Looking For Massage Courses That Will Change Your Perspective of Physical Therapy?

If you are looking for some massage courses that could change your perspective of psychical therapy, you must first know the difference between both. To gain a successful career in the health industry, you can join massage courses and choose one of the best options for your future. Massage courses are somewhere related with the physical therapy training. These courses include many other courses, a set of many courses which have different targeted zones of the body are involved in it.

Let us fist understand what actually physical therapy is-

Physical therapy

A holistic and patient therapy that is a centred approach focusing completely on the manual treatment of the soft tissue in the body - tendons, fascia, ligaments and muscles, is called as the physical therapy. Highly skilled people are employed in the process to prevention, diagnose, or treat underlying problems and conditions. Health science principals work as the base of the therapy. This therapy includes the use of some equipments and different apparatus to heal a person suffering from some problem or injury.

The healing properties of touch help people to come out of their physical problem. This practise is very traditional; many people know that it has been in use from years. It is safe because it is drug free and it is non-invasive which makes it the best. People feel these therapy practises are special because they are treated and cared personally and individually. After knowing about the daily schedule, eating habits, psychological social and the environmental factors, of a person the therapist suggests some exercise and some practises that will help the person stay healthy.

Massage and its importance

The system of massage is very different, in this the focus is laid on the management of the tissues of some one's body by manual process to help the body into its natural condition where the pain is naturally reduced and health is improved. For the purpose of well being, trauma healing, stress reduction and for the proper functioning of all the body parts, the massage is great. When all the parts in the body will work together, with right co-ordination the body will stay in great healthy condition where all things in the body will be in balance.

You can see that the massage courses are different than the physical therapy training. In the massage courses the thing that can let a person earn more money is the simplicity in it with more demand. The process of massage includes only few basic principles that can be understood by a person clearly and neatly but the physical therapy have many different perspectives that should be kept in mind.

You can select the massage therapy instead of the physical therapy and you can gain a better chance of sustaining life with great help to others and without falling into different dimensions of healing which you need to face in the physical therapy courses. The other main thing which you should understand is that the massage can be given to all those people who are fine and just need relaxation but physical therapy is mostly done to those who are having some problem or are injured. So with massage you have a better chance to earn much more money.

Massage Therapy for Pets

Humans are not the only beings that can benefit from a massage therapy, in fact pet massage therapy was developed to improve and maintain healthy condition among our pets. This type of therapeutic massage is intended for pets who have suffered injuries or for those who are with certain health problems. This type of natural treatment is beneficial not only for pets but also for pet lovers who aim on keeping their beloved animals safe and healthy at all times.

In case you don't know how to massage your pet, pet salons offer this kind of service at affordable prices depending on what type of therapeutic massage you want for your pet. Make sure that the massage therapist is a certified and licensed masseuse before you have your pet massaged to avoid any risks of injuries or complications. It is also wise to consult with your vet to know if having a pet massage therapy for your little angel is beneficial or just a waste of your money. If you don't want to spend for this type of massage therapy that you think you can learn and do it yourself, then doing it at home is the best idea.

There are different types of pet massage therapy that are beneficial and effective for the improvement or healing of your pet. Below are some of the most commonly used and popular types of massage therapy for pets:

1. Acupressure - this is similar to the acupressure used on human beings except for the fact that it is used on much different key positions on the pet's body. However, the aim is still the same as unblocking energy lines and keeping the energy within the body balanced are the goal of this massage method. This type of massage therapy is commonly used on animals that are suffering from ill conditions and those that are old and suffering from muscles and joints pain. Unlike with the acupressure used on humans though, pet acupressure uses significantly lighter level of pressure to ensure that the pet is enjoying the healing process instead of getting uncomfortable and confused with the treatment.

2. Reiki - this is a Japanese style of pet massage therapy which is similar to shiatsu as it touches the meridian points of the pet's body. The main goal is also to unblock the energy channels all over the pet's body to improve and trigger the self-healing properties of the body of the pet. The objective is to maintain the balance of energy inside the pet's body to retain its healthy condition. Like acupressure, reiki is used on injured and ill animals that need to quickly recover and improve their immune system.

3. Traditional animal massage - more like the Swedish massage which uses light and gentle massage strokes to give comfort and healing to the pet's body. The process of continuous mild stroke all over the pet's body also creates positive behavior in your pet as it increases the trust level of your beloved companion. Expect an increase in blood and oxygen circulation in your pet and a much better outward appearance due to the relaxing and stress relieving benefits of the traditional animal massage.

"Oil Pulling" - The Alternative Medcine Therapy That Cures Many Diseases 4 Virtually Free - Thank Go

As a disabled victim of MS, I have tried just about everything to reverse the debilitating symptoms of MS (Multiple Sclerosis):

From Avonix, an "Injectable" ~ self administered ~ prescription drug, that is pushed by "Traditional" neurologist's, to "Cortisone Therapy", another of the "Traditional Medicine Man's" approaches ~ have each been disappointing..

"Non-Traditional" and "Alternative Medicine" have allowed me to countless options ~ that I have faithfully pursued ~ over the last six years. Each has given me some "Hope", and an understanding of what has not worked for me.

I have used LDN (Low Dose Naltrexion), BVT (Bee venom Therapy), CS (Colliodial Silver) and God only knows how many dozens of vitamins, herbs, and supplements.

Each was said to have helped other MSers. Yet, while my body likely benefited ~ to some degree ~ its disability continued to worsen. At last, I was non-ambulitory, and totally "Incontinent."

God Healed me "Instantaneously" of Incontinence", but has been using other
"Non-Traditional and Alternative Medicine" methods to effect the completion of the "Cure" ~ that My Lord "Jesus" ~ paid for ~ by "HIS Stripes".

Isaiah 53:5 But He [was] wounded for our transgressions, [He was] bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace [was] upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.
1 Peter 2:24 who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness -- by whose stripes you were healed.

A couple of weeks ago, an "MSer" ~ that I have interacted with for several years ~ forwarded me a message from a post into one of many yahoo support groups to which I belong.

On 4/24/07, a friend of mine ~ with Multiple Sclerosis ~ wrote:

Subject: [mscured] Oil Pulling

My mother in law sent me this info from http://OilPulling.com.

Have any of you ever tried oil pulling and if so, did you notice any benefits?

Dr. (med.) Karach said the OP heals totally "head-aches, bronchitis, tooth pain, thrombosis, eczema, ulcers and diseases of stomach, intestines, heart, blood, kidney, liver, lungs and women's diseases. It heals diseases of nerves, paralysis, and encephalitis. It prevents the growth of malignant tumors, cuts and heals them. Chronic sleeplessness is cured."
Send your questions and concerns to

[http://info]@oilpulling.com.

Back Ground

Dr. F. Karach, M.D., presented a paper before the All-Ukrainian Association. The meeting was attended by oncologists and bacteriologists belonging to the Academy of Science of the USSR. Dr. Karach explained an unusual simple healing process using cold-pressed oils.

The results of this therapy invoked astonishment and doubt concerning the contents of his report. However, after further examining the workings of the oil therapy, one has but to then test it on oneself to prove its validity and effectiveness. It is most astonishing that such results can be achieved with this absolutely harmless biological healing method.

This simple method makes it possible to effectively treat the most varied diseases, in some cases enabling one to avoid surgical intervention and the taking of medications that can have harmful side effects.The exciting factor of this healing method is its simplicity.

It consists of swishing cold-pressed oil in the mouth( Sunflower or Seasme, Pl. note you don't need to go for organic oils only, A normal refined sunflower oil bought from any supermarket proven to be effective in many people). The healing process is accomplished by the human organism on its own.

In this way it is possible to heal cells, tissue and all organs simultaneously; the body itself gets rid of toxic waste without disturbing the healthy microflora. Dr. Karach says human beings are living only half their life span. They could potentially live healthy to be 140 to 150 years old.

The method

In the morning before breakfast on an empty stomach you take one tablespoon in the mouth but do not swallow it. Move Oil Slowly in the mouth as rinsing or swishing and Dr Karach puts it as ' sip, suck and pull through the teeth' for fifteen to twenty minutes. This process makes oil thoroughly mixed with saliva. Swishing activates the enzymes and the enzymes draw toxins out of the blood.

The oil must not be swallowed, for it has become toxic.

As the process continues, the oil gets thinner and white. If the oil is still yellow, it has not been pulled long enough. It is then spit from the mouth , the oral cavity must be thoroughly rinsed and mouth must be washed thoroughly. Just use normal tap water and good old fingers to clean.

Clean the sink properly, you can use some antibacterial soap to clean the sink. Because the spittle contains harmful bacteria and toxic bodily waste. If one were to see one drop of this liquid magnified 600 times under a microscope, one would see microbes in their first stage of development.

It is important to understand that during the oil-pulling/swishing process one's metabolism is intensified. This leads to improved health.

One of the most striking results of this process is the fastening of loose teeth, the elimination of bleeding gums and the visible whitening of the teeth.
The oil pulling /swishing is done best before breakfast. To accelerate the healing process, it can be repeated three times a day, but always before meals on an empty stomach.

Precautions

(a) Do not swallow. The oil should be spat out. But inadvertently if you swallow there is nothing to worry. It will go out through feces. Nothing is to be done.

(b) If you are allergic to a particular brand of oil, change the brand of oil or oil itself to different oil.

(c) Sunflower and Sesame oil have been found to be equally effective in curing diseases. Other oils were not found to be as good. Do not blame oil pulling by practicing with other oils. Use refined oils.

Results of Oil Pulling

The result of this healing research has attracted amazement and resulted in further research. This additional research concerning Oil Therapy has now been thoroughly documented, especially with regard to physiological similarities between individuals.

It is surprising that through this biological healing method a wide variety of symptoms have unquestionably disappeared without any side-effects. This simple method makes it possible completely heal such a wide variety of diseases which would normally be treated by an operation or by powerful or potent Drugs, usually with significant side-effects.

The simplicity of this healing system in which Oil is swirled backwards and forwards in the mouth, is due to the stimulating effect which it has on the body's eliminatory system.

Through this method it is possible to heal individual cells, cell conglomerates such as lymph nodes and more complex tissues such as internal organs simultaneously. This occurs because the beneficial microflora throughout the body are provided with a healthy continuum.

Without this natural bodily intrusive element evinced by the microflora the usual pattern of human health tends to lean towards illness rather than wellness.

Dr. Karach anticipates that regular application of this treatment by reversing this process so that wellness is the dominant state of the human body is likely to increase the average human lifespan to approximately 150 years, double the present life expectancy.

Dr. Karach is supported in this view by other colleagues in the world.

By means of this treatment {Oil } it is invariably the result that diseases like migraine headaches, bronchitis, diseased teeth, arterio thrombosis, chronic blood disorders such as leukemia, arthritis and related illnesses, neuro physiological paralysis, eczema, gastro enteritis, peritonitis, heart disease, kidney disease, meningitis, and women's hormonal disorders are completely eliminated from the organism.

The benefit of Dr. Karach's method is that the oil therapy heals the whole body in perpetuity. In terminal diseases such as cancer, Aids and chronic infections this treatment method has been shown to successfully replace all others.

Dr. Karach has successfully healed a chronic leukemia patient with 15 years of harsh treatment methods behind him. Acute arthritis in 1 patient who was totally bedridden was removed from his body in 3 days with no inflammation apparent.

* NOTE: The recommended oils to use are Sunflower Oil, Seasme Oil. We are receiving many emails about which oil to use.

Our experience with thousands of people across the globe says USE COLD PRESSED OIL as first choice, if it is not available use REFINED OIL (which seems to be effective in the process too). We have observed that any oil other than SUNFLOWER or SEASME may not be effective.

Since that day ~ I have practiced "Oil Pulling" ~ at least ~ twice each day.

I Am seeing my disabilities and symptoms of MS (Multiple Sclerosis) disappear.

And ~ yes ~ I Am also continuing to use my "THE FEAST" supplement ~ using LIFEWAVE Pain Patches ~ and taking an antioxidant that is not yet available via my website:

website.

In the near future ~ I hope to be able o offer Free samples of this triple antioxidant ~ MLM Affiliate Program ~ As I do the other health products that I have found have helped me.

This is but the 1st article ~ on this "Oil Pulling" subject ~ that I have written. I promise that there will be more forthcoming ~ as I see more results..

I will conclude this article by using what I wrote to my MS (Multiple Sclerosis) affected ~ Earth Angel ~ friend:

I'll Begin "Pulling My Weight" In Oil ~ Right Away :)))

Please let me know how it works on Your MS ~ for you :))

"Thanks!"

LuV Ya :)

Rascal :))

How to Stay Healthy - Tips From a Physical Therapist

Contrary to what most people believe, there are people that schedule an annual check-up with their physical therapist to ensure that they stick with an overall health and wellness maintenance plan for staying healthy. When you visit a physical therapist to maintain health and wellness, the physical therapist will do a complete evaluation of your health level and then personalize a treatment plan. The plan includes rehab therapy for any problems that the physical therapist has located as well as a personalized plan for how to stay healthy and live a high quality of life.

Any physical therapist will tell you that patient education is an essential part of physical therapy. The education includes how to improve points in your body which exemplify weakness to prevent pain and injury in the future, maintain flexibility and muscle mass, practice a healthy diet, and much more. So if you pay a visit to a physical therapist here are some basic tips they will provide on how to stay healthy before they go into a detailed treatment plan with you.

Physical Therapy Evaluation

A physical therapist will recommend a complete evaluation so he/she can devise a treatment plan that will teach you how to stay healthy. The evaluation includes a complete review of your physical capabilities including extremity range of motion, spinal range of motion, cardiovascular and pulmonary, neurological function, assessment of your daily living activities, and much more. The physical therapist will then go through your health concerns with you in detail and then compile a plan to help you stay healthy.

General Recommendations for How to Stay Healthy

In addition to discussing your evaluation and treatment plan with you in detail, your physical therapist will also make the following general recommendations for how to stay healthy:

• Water: Water flushes all of the toxins out of your system. A physical therapist will recommend that you sip on water throughout the entire day as opposed to taking it in all at once. This will help to keep your cells hydrated and your system free of toxin build up. If you wait until you are thirsty to drink water then you have waited too long.

• Stretching and Exercise: It is very important to do stretching exercises on a daily basis to maintain mobility and flexibility. It also helps to prevent injury when you engage in exercise. You should stretch your hamstrings, chest muscles, and shoulders to maintain good posture and then exercise on a daily basis doing something you enjoy such as walking, riding your bike, or doing the gardening. Whatever it is make sure you engage in movement every day.

• Eat Breakfast: You may have heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day and that is because it really is. In order to get a jumpstart on your day eat a breakfast that is high in protein with a ratio of 4 to 1 carbohydrates and protein. Avoid cereals that are high in sugar and high fructose corn syrup.

• Balance Your Diet: In addition to eating breakfast make sure you practice a balanced diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and protein. Avoid processed foods because they contribute to the build up of toxins in your body and basically lower your energy level. Instead, stick with fresh produce and natural foods and eliminate caffeine and alcohol as well as fast foods that are high in saturated fat. If you smoke, consider kicking the habit.

• Stay Mentally Active: Just like your body needs exercise so does your brain. Make sure you stay mentally active by reading a lot, doing puzzles, engaging in social activities, keeping up with your hobbies, and any other activities you enjoy which will provide you with mental exercise.

These are some of the basic tips a physical therapist will provide on how to stay healthy. It is also necessary to visit your physical therapist regularly so they can help you stay on top of what is happening with your health and your body. Physical therapists can also guide you and keep you on course with a daily health regimen to maintain overall health and wellness.

Alternative Medicine Therapy - Does Your Family Need It?

A lot of people still have misconceptions about what alternative medicine can and can't do. It's true that not all branches of alternative medicine therapy are approved by the Food and Drug Administration. And because of this reason, it's strongly possible that your insurance company won't reimburse your expenses when you receive this kind of treatment or use such products. Is this a huge loss, you ask. In a nutshell, yes.

What You're Missing Out on
Don't let your insurance policy hold you back from enjoying the many healthcare benefits that they aren't liable to cover. Why should you let this happen when there are other ways to enjoy healthcare savings? You can join a healthcare savings network, for instance, and you'll be immediately entitled to enjoy all the benefits you get from your insurance and then some.

With a healthcare savings plan, you get to enjoy discounted rates when you avail of alternative medicine therapy. There are numerous branches of alternative medicine therapy but most - if not all of them - such as acupressure and herbal remedies are covered by healthcare savings packages. Their benefits, however, are generally the same and some of which have been listed below to help you have an idea of how much your life can change - positively - if you receive this kind of therapy.

Natural All the Way
Ask any expert and their opinion is sure to be in unanimous in saying that it's always best if you eat food that's organically produced or entirely natural. Even medications utilize natural ingredients but because of the other chemicals used with them, you only get to receive the diluted version of the benefits that these natural ingredients have to offer.

But with herbal remedies and other types of natural holistic care, you can be sure that you will receive maximum benefits since you're taking them at their original and purest form.

Living Healthy
Alternative therapies don't just tell you what and how much to take how many times each day. It goes beyond that by doing what it can to transform your life completely with a positive and healthy lifestyle.

Alternative care definitely involves making the right changes with your diet. It determines which foods you can and can't eat and most of its form encourage eating everything in moderation. It tells you to stay away from foods that are rich in sugar, calories, carbohydrates, and fats and oils because all these can affect your metabolism and physical health. What it does encourage you is to eat a well-balanced meal, one that has all the important nutrients. Alternative care also prioritizes intake of vegetables and fruits as these help you feel full and healthy without gaining accompanying weight.

Alternative therapy also touches on your fitness routine. Besides regular workouts, it also encourages other forms of workouts such as yoga and tai-chi, which help individuals become not just physically fit but also mentally and spiritually.

With alternative medical therapy , stress isn't just a psychological disorder but a dangerous symptom that can ultimately affect your overall health. Ultimately, this therapy teaches you how to be happy and healthy at the same time, and that's always a good thing.

The Importance of Physical Therapy

With scientific advancements and improvements in the preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic medicine today we have solutions and treatments for almost all medical issues; however, holistic ways of treatment are still popular all over the world for a number of reasons. They are totally natural and organic and are not associated with any short-term hazards or organic damage to tissues. Anyone can be a candidate for holistic methods of treatment like physical therapy and chiropractics. Physical therapy is very effective in treating the symptoms of diseases without any risk of long term complications.

Physical therapy can be employed by every individual in order to improve the stiffness of muscles and joints that occur in the setting of inflammatory joint diseases. These diseases include arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis) that limits the range of motion and causes moderate to severe pain. PT helps in removing the toxins, inflammatory mediators and free radicals that causes pain, redness, inflammation and disease.

Traumatic injuries that occur as a result of accidents (road traffic accidents, falls or physical impact) can lead to injury to ligaments, bones, muscles, tendons, joint capsule or cartilage. Physical therapy helps in the healing of tissues by providing warmth and support to healing muscles and tendons for healthy recovery.

Age-related wear and tear changes affect the integrity of joints and little can be done to repair the damage; however, by employing PT exercises, further damage can be prevented and complications can be decreased. Moreover, physical therapy improves the range of motion and pain-free activity across damaged, osteoporotic joints and also prevents the damage to nerves to improve numbness, paresthesia and other symptoms.

Unlike other field of medicine, physical therapy governs all aspects of healthcare. If you have certain risk factors, these exercises can help in preventing diseases and complications by improving blood circulation and stability of bony architecture in medical conditions like diabetes, osteoporosis, osteopenia, chronic steroid therapy and others. PT exercises performed by athletes, elderly patients with low physical mobility and pregnant women decreases the risk of damage to joints and ligaments. PT exercises in the elderly and hospitalized (bed-ridden) patients helps in preventing bed-sores, infections, deep venous thrombosis and other complications.

In case of certain injuries like torn ligaments, osteoarthritis and other degenerative joint diseases, bone aches and other issues, physical therapy exercises promote natural tissue healing and repair. Injuries are a part of sport-related activities and most athletes avoid surgical procedures to avoid the risk of damage to other vital structures and also to reduce the time for post-op recovery. PT exercises help in achieving both the treatment of injuries and the promotion of early post-op recovery in case of surgery.

Physical therapy exercises are widely used for rehabilitation after major surgical procedures all over the world. After major surgeries, early mobility and physical activity is very important and determine short hospital stay and early recovery. This therapy is used for rehabilitation in patients after cardiac surgery to promote early return of circulatory function of heart. However, since vigorous activity is not indicated, physical therapy exercises are the only option to restore normal circulation. Physical therapy can also be used following surgery involving major vessels for deep venous thrombosis in order to prevent the formation of thrombus, embolus and lymph edema by promoting blood flow across the vessels and also helps in healing. It's used in surgeries of the gut that increases the risk of thrombosis and other issues and any surgery that involves bones, skeleton, ligaments and muscles for healthy recovery.

The most important component of physical therapy is to educate patients and other individuals about its importance. Education and awareness about physical therapy exercises helps in the prevention of a number of health related issues and complications.

Gene Therapy for Cancer

Gene therapy for cancer

Being one of the potent killers of mankind; cancer has no known, completely effective cure. Although treatments aimed at managing cancer and reducing mortality have been around for some time and have improved over the years; till now, the best prescription for cancer cure is early detection, something that is left to wild chance, because most cancers are asymptomatic. This calls for preventive screening, but this is neither foolproof nor riskless.

The new line of approach

One approach that could offer new hope for cancer treatment is gene therapy. It is not a generalized set of medicines or treatments; rather, it is a new approach that looks at the treatment of cancer in a different way altogether.

What is it?

Gene therapy can be defined as a set of records and databases with which to identify treatments specific to the individual's genetic setup. In order to understand this approach, one has to get a basic understanding of how cancer cells work. Cancer usually starts with a single cell. It then grows within the body by multiplying. This multiplication is done by a process called mutation, during which it not only divides indefinitely; it also renders the immune system powerless in stopping it. This is because it is so similar to the healthy genes that the immune system cannot distinguish between it and healthy genes.

A set of records

Understanding the similarity between the malignant and healthy genes is the key to stopping the growth of cancer cells, because it helps understand many aspects about the mutation, such as how it is likely to grow, how it responds to various treatments, and so on. Gene therapy aids this process significantly by compiling and matching the patient's gene records. These records help doctors prescribe the right kind of treatment, based on a study of the gene records. This is likely to make treatment more targeted and specific and more importantly, effective. It prevents the patient from being subjected to generalized treatments that are often harsh and come with many side effects.

Targeted treatment

Scientists at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston have identified two genes that are what may be termed rogue genes in that they prevent treatment from working. Spotting these two genes is an important premise to coming out with tailor-made, effective treatments. This can be carried out with a simple toolkit.

Multi-pronged approach

In patients undergoing this line of detection; genetic material such as DNA or RNA, which improve the body's ability to fight malignant cells, are injected into the body through a number of approaches. One of these is to inject these DNA so that they target at the malignant cells and destroy them in a process being labeled 'suicide genes', meaning making the malignant cells destroy themselves. One other approach is to inject DNA or RNA on healthy genes to make them stronger and resistant to future attacks. Yet another is to make existent cancer cells stronger and more sensitive to chemotherapy, thus drastically improving the success rate of treatments like chemo.

Bright promise

It may be a while before people afflicted by cancer can receive the full benefits of this line of treatment, because most of these are in the trial stages and will require approvals and need to be weighed for risk-benefit analyses. Yet, that a new and revolutionary line of treatment is on the horizon cannot be denied.

Introduction To Magnetic Therapy

1. Introduction

Magnetic therapy is a natural approach to relieve pain and restore energy levels. It is successfully used by millions of people around the world and has proven to be safe and easy to apply. The practice of magnetic therapy itself dates back to ancient times when countries such as Egypt, Greece and China were using the magnetic properties of natural stones for healing purposes. Because magnetic therapy is natural, it has no known side effects and is completely non-invasive.

Today on a scientific level there is growing evidence that magnetic therapy is effective and works in healing diverse conditions such as:

* Arthritis

* Joint pains and sprains

* Wounds

* Migraines

* Back pain

* Sleep disorders

The British National Health Service is now prescribing magnetic leg wraps for treating leg ulcers with positive results. The power of magnetic therapy has also become popular amongst professional athletes for relieving pain and healing. Most popular forms of application are magnetic therapy bracelets and magnetic body support wraps.

2. How It Works

The way magnetic therapy works is based on the foundation that magnetic fields are produced everywhere in varying strengths from the earth itself to the magnetic fields produced in our cells and nervous system. Since electromagnetism is a fundamental part in the functioning of the human body, it is known that external magnetic fields can affect us also, both positively and negatively. When our bodies are in a natural healthy state, our bodily fluids are more alkaline.

When illness occurs such as inflammation or swelling, the area of illness in the body becomes more acidic and has a more positively charged magnetic field. The human body naturally produces a negative magnetic field to help it heal the affected area of the body in order to redress a healthy balance. (This negative charge is the same as one produced by a geomagnetic north pole magnetic field). The application of an external negative magnetic field on the problem area aids in accelerating the body's own immune system by re-normalizing the pH level and at the same time it relaxes blood vessels that allows for increased blood flow into the affected area by bringing oxygenated blood and clearing away toxins.

Using the correct application of negatively charged magnets in contact with the relevant part of the body enhances the body's natural ability to heal faster and re-establish a natural healthy state. As magnetic therapy is slowly gaining mainstream acceptance in western medicine, it will be used increasingly to treat physical and emotional disorders.

3. Not for Everyone

Magnets can have an adverse effect on electrical and magnetic appliances. It should not be worn by people fitted with a pacemaker or any other health related electrical device. It is also not recommended for use by pregnant women.

4. Lifestyle

It is important to note that our lifestyle choices that include nutrition intake, drinking, smoking, etc, as well as age contribute towards our overall well-being and our responsiveness to recover effectively from illnesses. The effectiveness of medicine including conventional medication depends on our own natural ability to recover. It is very important for us to prevent illnesses by maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, proper sleep, etc. Magnetic therapy may be used to treat an affected area, but as it is holistic in nature, it is more effective in conjunction with having a natural healthy lifestyle.

Stay Healthy and Get an Immune System Boost With Electromagnetic Wave Therapy

Is your immune system strong enough? Are you sure? At some point or another, your body's immune response can be hindered by lack of rest, poor eating habits and sleep deficiency. When traditional treatments are not effective for getting your health back on track, you can get an immune system boost with electromagnetic wave therapy. It is a type of acupuncture, only without the needles.

A Brief Study of Electromagnetic Wave Therapy

The Chinese have used acupuncture as a treatment for a variety of ailments for centuries and only in the past few decades has the western medical establishment recognized its healing properties. The practice is based on the belief that your body is full of energy pathways and if one of them gets blocked, you can court potential pain and illness. These energy pathways called meridians interconnect all parts of the body from the major organs to the bones to body functions and emotions.

When one of the meridians is blocked, it can trigger an immune response. Acupuncture can be used to re-open the blockages. In practice, tiny stainless steel needles are inserted into different acupoints along the body. However, with the electronic version called electromagnetic wave therapy, a wand delivers electromagnetic pulses to corresponding acupoints on the hand, wrist and palm. This electronic acupuncture therapy is non-invasive and can be used to treat your ailments and boost immunity in the home.

Refreshing your Immune System

Germs such as bacteria and viruses are not the only culprits for illness. Sometimes, stress, anxiety and fatigue are the starting points. When you let yourself get run down, some energy blockages start closing up, compromising your immunity and your body's ability to fight off infection. Suffering a lack of sleep and rest as well as mind-diverting stress, you undermine your chances of staying healthy.

Electromagnetic wave therapy devices enable you to stimulate the different acupoints on the wrist and hand which relate to other parts of the body. The electronic wave impulses enter the acupoint where they travel until they reach an energy blockage. Once they break through the energy blockage, the result is a release of rich, oxygenated blood as well as infection fighting white blood cells, equipping you with the immune system boost you need to stay healthy.

Electromagnetic wave therapy is an excellent companion to traditional western medicine protocols. It is also painless and can be used daily to prevent future ailments. Without the use of needles, this electronic form of acupuncture is actually a preferred way to treat pain, stress, and realize a boost of endorphin-releasing energy. Of course, by maintaining clear energy pathways, you get an immune system boost too.

Trigger Point Therapy Massage Tools

What is Trigger Point Therapy?

Trigger point therapy is a massage therapy that involves massaging the tight knots of the muscles as this helps to relieve pain. The knots in the body that tend to be the tightest are the neck, back, and leg muscles. This type of therapy helps to relieve muscles tension in the body. The trigger point therapy's focus is on eliminating the painful area than just treating the surface pain of inflammation. The trigger point therapy helps to find and destroy the pressure clusters as this will assist in eliminating the pain.

The trigger points in the body are known to cause major discomfort to the body of continuous unforgettable pain including hypersensitivity, muscle tension, shortening of the muscles, muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and numbness, stabbing and shooting pains. This can also cause nausea, and dizziness. So it is important to deactivate the trigger point in order relieve pain. Those who receive this type of massage may feel some soreness for several days after the session. It is important to stretch out the muscles frequently to help prevent the muscles from tightening up again.

There are many trigger point therapy massage tools that can be used in the comfort of your home to help relieve the muscle tension and continuous experience of pain in the body. Each of these tools helps with relieving sore muscles and trigger points with varying results.

Backnobber Tool

The Backnobber tool looks similar to the Thera-Cane but it is still has its unique useful qualities. The Backnobber has the ability to be taken apart to fit in a carry-on bag or suitcase for easy travel. The Backnobber also has the ability to be used by small and large individuals.

Thera-Cane

The Thera-Cane is which is found to be the most popular and versatile trigger point massage tool that is useful with allowing to get to all of the places that your hands are unable to meet or reach. It is important before using the Thera-Cane to stretch the muscles as this will help to locate the tender areas. The cane is made out of fiberglass and can't be bent or broken. The tool does not have the capabilities to be taken apart like the Backnobber Tool.

Lacrosse Balls

The next helpful Trigger point therapeutic massage tool is Lacrosse balls. To use these is by leaning against a wall with these Lacrosse balls and they will be able to penetrate the trigger points in the body. These balls have better texture as they are made out of rubber compared to the texture of tennis balls. This tool is similar to the Healthy Body Ball Massager however the Lacrosse Balls has a smooth texture all around the ball.

Pressure Pointer Tool

The trigger point therapy tools help with varying degrees of pain. The Pressure Pointer tool has several different heads that can be used for localizing annoying pain in the body. It provides instant relief of pain for each individual who uses this product. While massaging the pressure points it helps relieving pain and releasing the stress from the pressure point. This tool has more extensions available in comparison to the Thera Cane and Backnobber Tool. The Pressure Pointer massager tool has several rolling massage heads, adjustable features, foam hand grip which helps with handling the massager while using it.

Healthy Body Ball Massager

The Healthy Body Ball massager is another helpful tool for Trigger Point massage. This is a round ball tool for ease and comfort to be used against a wall, or the floor will help with relieving any pain in the body. Compared to the Lacrosse Balls it can be used standing up against a wall. It helps the body to relieve pain and increase blood circulation. The Healthy Body Ball Massager appears to have these protruding round fat spikes around the ball. The tool is found to be good with increasing healing ability, increase joint and muscle flexibility, reduce muscle spasms, improving posture, relieving stress, aiding in relaxation and reducing the overall pain cycle.

Anti Aging Therapies

Aging is a natural process and cannot be stopped. However it is possible to slow down this process to a great extent and even reverse aging signs in certain cases by choosing the best anti aging therapy.

It is possible to control and reduce the effects of aging by choosing the best natural treatment methods. As you browse around in the market, you can find a variety of different brands claiming to be a magic treatment for aging. It is important to remember that there is no shortcut to avoiding or slowing the natural aging process. So what is a good anti aging therapy?

You would have observed that certain people tend to look aged at a relatively young age. On the other hand, there are those who look young and healthy through most part of their lives. Have you ever wondered why?

Why are a few people able to fight the complication of aging successfully? Most of us would say that they are able to maintain their beauty in the best manner and this is why they do not manifest any signs of aging. However, this is not the truth. More than the outer beauty, it is the inner health which plays a very vital role in fighting aging.

Billions of cells are present in our body. Certain molecules which are unstable in nature keep attacking the healthy cells in our body. In order to make sure that the healthy cells in are not affected, we must ensure a higher level of antioxidants. These antioxidants are available in many different food substances. Hence, the very first step towards a successful anti aging therapy is to have a proper diet.

Leafy vegetables, green vegetables, cabbage, sweet potatoes and carrots are some of the vegetables that provide you with essential antioxidants that act as your ammunition to fight the problem of aging.

Apart from the right diet, daily regime of physical exercise is another important part of a successful anti aging therapy. Exercise is an aspect which again plays a very essential role in keeping your body healthy.

Unfortunately, most of the people tend to ignore the exercise regime and implement a good diet plan in their anti aging therapy and focus more on cosmetics and medications. Some of the fake and spurious products in the market not only fail to show positive results but also give rise to different complications and side effects.

Urine Therapy Is Your Pee'Scription to Better Health!

In the West, drinking urine is completely ridiculous. The mere thought of it causes nausea and disgust. The fact remains that urine therapy has been around for as long as man has. There is no evidence that it has ever harmed anyone and many firmly believe that is has helped and even healed them in some way.

One of the former Prime Ministers of India proclaimed on American National T.V. that he drank 500 ml. of his own urine every morning and he believed it was the very reason he lived healthy to age 100. Yogi`s and some Buddhist monks which are among the oldest living people of the world, drink urine to heal and purify their bodies. Medicine Buddhist Monks will smell and taste the urine of patients to determine illness and for the purpose of determining treatment.

Drugs come with a long list of side effects while urine therapy has no known ill effects.

Every day we can turn on the T.V. and hear reports of how drugs and medicine have been found to have terrible side effects. Somehow however, we have learned to tune those things out in the hope that we can take some magical pill and all our problems will disappear. At the same time, when we hear someone speaking about natural remedies including urine therapy, we think... what nonsense.

Urine therapy in the Morning

It is time to wake up and smell the Urine. Anyone who does drink their own urine can instantly tell if they ate healthy the day before, or ate processed junk food. The proof is in the smell and taste of the pee. If you ate healthy the day before then the smell will be minimal and the taste will be like slightly warm water with just a hint of mineral salts in it. If however, you ate fast food or some other kind of junk, then your pee will have a very strong odor and the taste will sting with a rancid overwhelming flavor.

Just the Facts About Pee!

The fact is, we have known for some time that pee is a sterile fluid with many minerals, vitamins, hormones and other components that have been passed by the body simply because the body was unable to make use of them at that particular time. It may be that the body had enough of those at the time or it may be that a less than optimal bodily function was unable to make use of them in spite of their being needed by the body.

By consuming the pee, it re-introduces those things in a form readily absorbable by the body. More and more people around the world are being "Sold" on the idea that only drugs are real and only these chemical medicines can aid the body in healing. But before you blindly follow someone who stands to profit from your choice, consider the facts.

Have you ever known someone on drugs who was healthy?

I have never known anyone who was on drugs or in need of surgery that was healthy. But I have known many who ate natural foods, took herbs, practiced urine therapy, meditation and spiritual practices along with other traditional medicines and practices that were very healthy. That`s a fact!

Learn more at Urine Therapy

Reiki Therapy For Holistic Health

Health remains to be one of our most important concerns. We all want to have healthy bodies, minds and spirits. If you feel as if you have taken the toll of daily life to the point that you can no longer function fully, then you can consider getting some kind of alternative healing therapies. One such example is Reiki therapy, a system of healing that originated in Tibet thousands of years ago and popularized by Dr. Mikao Usui of Japan. The Reiki therapy primarily triggers our bodies' natural healing abilities thus improving overall health. It is a natural kind of therapy that is practiced both in the Eastern and Western regions to balance life energies and to eventually improve the health and well-being of the patient or recipient.

The Basics of Reiki Therapy

This kind of therapy is similar to other natural healing therapies that are gaining following in many parts of the world. It focuses on the belief that a trained Reiki practitioner can actually transfer energy to a recipient to trigger the body's natural ability to heal on its own. It can be used to restore health as well as to maintain it. In essence, this kind of therapy aims to restore the natural Life Force of the body and providing a hands-on kind of healing for the mind, body and the spirit.

Practical Benefits of Reiki Therapy

1. To give relaxation and to release stress and tension.

If your work and daily routine leads you to stress and tension, then the Reiki therapy can help you. You can get help from a trained practitioner and he can help you release the built up tension and stress within your body.

2. To accelerate the self-healing abilities of the body.

Your body has the ability to heal itself. But it can get the needed help with Reiki sessions. You can include it in your regular routine in order to boost your body's ability to heal and be protected from long term illnesses.

3. To help relieve pain.

The Reiki therapy can also be useful for those who undergo pain or for those who have experienced various kinds of physical injuries. It can help you be relieved from physical pain. A Reiki therapist places his hands over specific parts of the body, especially those you want to heal. While the therapist plays a big role, you as the recipient and primarily controller of your body and energies, play the main role in healing and health.

4. To help the body detoxify.

Our bodies pile up with toxins not only because of the unhealthy habits we have but also because of the kind of lifestyle we live. In order to flush out the toxins from within us, the Reiki therapy can be used. This is a natural method to pump out the body's harmful toxins and elements.

5. To increase vitality and counter the effects of aging.

Age should not be the primary reason for you not to feel healthy and un-energized. With the use of this kind of therapy, you can postpone the effects of the aging process thus restoring vitality to your health and well-being.

6. To help with spiritual growth and emotional cleansing.

Since the Reiki therapy is not just focused on healing the physical form, it can also help you with emotional cleansing and spiritual growth. It is essential that when you undergo this kind of therapy that you do not only believe in the capacities of the practitioner but also in your own natural abilities.

Improving Your Overall Health With Enzyme Therapy

Improving your overall health starts with being health conscious, making smart lifestyle choices and focusing on preventative care. Today's fast-paced economy has created a mindset of instant gratification even when health is involved. People want to take a pill and instantly feel a difference, and many do not see value in preventative therapies unless they see a problem first. With poor lifestyle choices today consisting of fad diets, eating processed foods, taking prescription medication, consuming alcohol, over indulging in sweets and artificial sweeteners, the body is working in overdrive to rid itself of toxins and reduce body-wide inflammation. If more time was spent focusing on natural alternatives to prevent illness rather than reacting to illness and treating with prescription drugs, the world would be a healthier place.

The truth is, most people are not aware how good their body is actually designed to feel. This is where enzyme therapy comes into play. For most healthy individuals, our bodies naturally produce an optimal amount of enzymes until we reach our mid- to late-twenties. As we know, some people in their forties may be healthier than someone in their twenties. This can be a result of lifestyle choices, which can effect enzyme production from person to person.

So what are enzymes and why are they vital to your health? Enzymes are biocatalysts or proteins necessary for nearly 3000-4000 of the chemical reactions within our body that are associated with metabolic functions, digestion, detoxification, healthy immune system functioning, growth and natural healing. What does this ultimately mean? It means enzymes help other things work throughout the body. People over the age of 30 have an increased likelihood of enzyme deficiency, which may lead to greater chances of health issues and illnesses {5}.

When people think of enzymes, they most often think digestion. However, there are two different types of enzymes: digestive enzymes and systemic enzymes. Digestive enzymes are taken with a meal and help support overall digestive health by breaking down the food a person eats while also helping to improve nutrient absorption.

Many people are enzyme deficient and do not even know it. According to the National Institute of Health, "60 to 70 million people in America suffer from some type of digestive disorder. People who suffer from poor digestive health are commonly linked to low energy, excessive gas, poor skin health, joint pain, inflammation, weight-gain, weak immune system, heartburn and bloating following meals" {9}. Whether a person is looking to improve their digestive health or may be avoiding certain foods that commonly aggravate the gastrointestinal tract, implementing a well-balanced digestive enzyme complex ensure the body is properly breaking down fats, carbohydrates, proteins into small substrates that can be utilized for energy production throughout the day.

Much different than the role of a digestive enzyme is a systemic enzyme. Systemic enzymes work to support the body as a whole. They are most notably knows for their five main functions: natural anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrin, blood cleansing, immune system modulating and virus fighting. When considering a systemic enzyme supplement, it is important to look at the proprietary blend and delivery system. In order to ensure maximum absorption of activity, an enteric-coated delivery system is ideal which will protect the enzyme activity until the optimal time of release. The enteric-coated delivery system allows it to get past the stomach and into the small intestine without losing enzyme activity, which allows for better absorption.

Proteolytic enzymes or "protein eating enzymes" are the first line of defense against body wide inflammation, which may spread throughout the body to all major organs. Inflammation is a reaction by the immune system to an irritation which often results in pain, swelling or tenderness. Conventional medicine still tends to use pharmaceutical drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen to reduce inflammation. However, synthetic drugs have many side effects, both minor and severe, that often hinder long-term use in many people. A well-balanced Systemic Enzyme blend will naturally replenish the many enzymes the body uses to fight inflammation and aid in the repair of damaged tissue {1,3,4,6,8}.

Did you know that nearly all injuries and operations result in inflammatory reactions and build up of excess scar tissue which causes pain and swelling? It is a natural protective response to injuries and trauma on a cellular level. However, if the inflammation is not resolved ore reduced in the acute stage, it can become a chronic inflammatory problem {1,4,6}. When caring for injuries and during recovery following an operation, "it is important to apply medications for reducing the swelling and anti-inflammatory as well as fibrinolytic agents. If possible, such treatment should produce no adverse effects and should further the healing process of the organism" {10}. A safe and effective Systemic Enzyme formula, like Innerzyme's Pain & Inflammation Blend, offers a natural solution for post-operative scar tissue, inflammation, and pain following sports injuries and surgery whether recent or fifteen plus years ago.

In addition to it's anti-fibrin properties, systemic enzymes are also known for their ability to cleanse the blood of excess fibrin and exogenous material. Cleaner blood means better nutrient absorption and improved circulation. So how do these toxins and fibrin get into the blood in the first place? The organs and cells in our bodies dispose of these materials in our blood, which can cause clots, poor circulation, blood thickening and other health issues {2}.

How about immune system support and the ability to fight off viruses? Systemic enzymes assist the body to balance the immune system and restore a steady state to the body. A low functioning immune system means the body is more susceptible to disease. However, an extremely high functioning immune system will often create antibodies that attach the tissues within the body such as with autoimmune diseases or arthritis. Supplementation of a well-balanced systemic enzyme may help regulate the immune system and eat away at those antibodies that are attacking the body's tissue creating a disease state within the body {7}.

When it comes to viruses, protein cell walls build up around a virus and then bond together and replicate to cause harm throughout the body. The body knows what the body needs and these harmful protein walls are definitely not needed. The good thing about enzymes is they already know what protein to leave alone and what "foreign" protein to attack and eat away in order to inhibit the replication of the virus {7}.

Dr. Eli Hammer, Medical Director of The Hammer Institute for Anti-Aging Medicine, states, "I have used systemic enzymes extensively in my practice along with taking them personally for a few years, seeing dramatic reductions in pain and inflammation, and therefore, significant improvements in quality of life. Of all the systemic enzyme brands on the market, I truly believe Innerzyme has finally optimized the proper enzyme blend, while also vastly improving upon the delivery system for better efficacy and ease of administration" {3}.

Someone who lives a healthy lifestyle comprised of a balanced diet, regular exercise and proper nutritional supplementation will ultimately help their body to maintain wellness and regulate efficiently.

By Katie Jodscheidt, CPT, National Academy of Sports Medicine

References:

1. Beth Kapes, Bromelain Health Article. The Gale Group Inc., Gale, Detroit, 2005. Online.

2. Ernst E., Matrai A.: Oral Therapy with proteolytic enzymes for modifying blood rheology. Klin Wschr. 65 (1987).

3. Hammer, Eli J., MD. "Benefits of Enzyme Therapy, Innerzyme & Anti-Aging." Personal interview. 10 May 2012.

4. Hoemecke R, Doenicke A. Perioperative enzyme therapy. A significant supplement to postoperative pain therapy? Anaesthesist. 1993 Dec;42(12):856-61.

5. Howell, Edward, and Maynard Murray. Enzyme Nutrition: The Food Enzyme Concept. Wayne, NJ: Avery Pub. Group, 1985. Print.

6. Judith Sims, Rebecca J. Frey PhD, Chymotrypsin Health Article. The Gale Group Inc., Gale, Detroit, 2005. Online.

7. Kunze R., Ransberger K., et at: Humoral immunomodulatory capasity of proteases in immune complex decomposition and formation. First International symposium on combination therapies, Washington, DC, 1991.

8. Miller. Proteolytic enzymes in inflammation: rationale for use. Postgrad Med. 1956 Jan;19(1):16-22.

9. National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Opportunities and Challenges in Digestive Diseases Research: Recommendations of the National Commission on Digestive Diseases. Bethesda, MD: National Institutes of Health; 2009. NIH Publication 08-6514. http://www.nih.gov/

10. Wrba, H. & Pecher, O. Enzymes: A Drug of the Future. Ecomed Verlagsgesellschaft AG & Co., 1993. Print.