Overcome Hate

Overcoming hateful feelings takes work and patience.

Learning overcome hate remains an ongoing spiritual practice for many people Whether the hate involves something more or less trivial, such as hating to cook or a more consuming type of hatred such as that for another person or group, accruing the patience and wisdom to work through issues of hate can be a lifelong journey.

Instructions

1. Identify the object of your hatred. Spend some time examining exactly what it is you hate about a particular person. This provides a foundation on which you can begin your work. Try to look beyond the superficial layer and go deeper. Try to find the exact reason you hate someone or something. Look for behaviors or actions that you may dislike rather than hating the entire person.

2. Resolve the conflict when possible. If hated of another is based on a long-standing disagreement, perhaps now is a good time to bury the hatchet. This may be exceedingly awkward and uncomfortable, but may help put the past behind you. If the conflict cannot be resolved in this way, for example, if the object of hatred is a political party or ethnic group, work towards examining your own belief system as a way of overcoming this hatred.

3. Work towards forgiving someone for the harm they have done. "Forgiveness doesn't mean that you deny the other person's responsibility for hurting you, and it doesn't minimize or justify the wrong." says Mayo Clinic staff chaplain, Katherine Piderman, Ph.D., "You can forgive the person without excusing the act. Forgiveness brings a kind of peace that helps you go on with life."

4. Seek psychological, spiritual or community guidance if necessary. Talking with people who have either been through your situation or are in a place to listen objectively can be of great importance when working to move past hatred. This allows for an opportunity to speak freely, without being judged and can offer a different perspective as well as tools for helping to replace hate with a less destructive emotion.

5. Replace hateful thoughts with loving ones. Coretta Scott King, widow of Martin Luther King Jr., said, "Hate is too great a burden to bear. It hurts the hater more than it injures the hated." These words suggest that when we hate, a part of us loses the ability to find love and forgiveness, ultimately hurting ourselves. Some suggest that praying for the well being of someone we have hateful feelings for is a way to shift thoughts of hate to love, or at least acceptance. This may be seem impossible at times, but working on developing a new response to the object of your hatred will start the process.

6. Take it easy on yourself. This process may take some time, particularly if the damage done to you or a loved on was deeply painful. Understand that everyone goes through these challenges at some point in their lives and have to find their own paths towards working through these feelings.

Tags: hateful feelings, object your, object your hatred, some time, suggest that, through these

Cure Chronic Runny Nose

Result of a Chronic Runny Nose

A chronic runny nose can be annoying and uncomfortable, but it is rarely a sign of a serious illness. The most common cause of chronic runny nose is allergic rhinitis, which may occur year-round or only during peak pollen times. However, allergic rhinitis is not the only cause of chronic runny nose. Determining the cause of your chronic runny nose is the 1st step in curing the problem.

Instructions

1. Visit your doctor to make certain your nose is structurally all right. Conditions such as septal deviation, septal perforation and nasal polyps may all cause a chronic runny nose. These conditions require surgical correction.

2. Identify and avoid any potential triggers of allergic rhinitis. You can have allergy testing performed or keep a symptom diary to help identify what activities or exposures cause or increase your symptoms. Pollen, animal dander, mold, dust, dust mites and certain foods are common triggers for allergic rhinitis.

3. Remove plants from your home; bathe your pets more frequently; use pollen masks when mowing your lawn or working outside; and switch to synthetic or cotton sheets and pillows. Keep your house and car windows closed during peak pollen seasons, and install an air purifier inside your home to filter the air. Avoid nasal irritants, such as cigarette smoke, perfumes, aerosol sprays and car exhaust. Make sure visitors to your home smoke outside.

4. Try using a steroid nasal spray to help cure chronic runny nose. Intra-nasal glucocorticoids can dramatically alleviate symptoms of inflammation and runny nose when used short-term. Long-term use increases the risk of side effects.

5. Take a daily anti-histamine to dry your chronic runny nose. Anti-histamines are especially helpful for allergic rhinitis, and there are non-sedating anti-histamine medications available over-the-counter.

6. Avoid using oral decongestants, oral steroids and decongestant sprays long-term. While these treatment options can provide considerable relief, they may cause dangerous side effects and a rebound runny nose when discontinued.

7. Try a medication such as cromolyn sodium, montelukast or ipratropium to reduce nasal drainage and cure chronic runny nose. Speak with your doctor about getting a prescription for these medications.

Use a saline nasal irrigation solution to help alleviate symptoms of chronic runny nose. Saline, or salt water, helps reduce swelling and drainage without causing the side effects common with medications.

Tags: chronic runny, runny nose, allergic rhinitis, chronic runny nose, runny nose

Grow A Marsh Mallow Plant

Marsh mallow plants or Althaea officinalis grow wild in marshy areas in the mid-Atlantic. This hardy perennial features soft velvety leaves and pale pink flowers that appear midsummer to early autumn. The plant contains a thick mucilage long used as a folk remedy for constipation and coughs. You can grow a marsh mallow plant in regular gardens as well.

Instructions

1. Stratify the seeds in midwinter, as they need a period of cool weather that mimics life in the wild to germinate. Place a small amount of damp sand in a plastic bag and mix the seeds with the sand. Let the bag stand at room temperature for a day to absorb the moisture. Place it in the refrigerator for a month to six weeks. Shake the bag occasionally, and if you see germination beginning, immediately plant.

2. Fill a container with drainage holes with potting mix. Place the stratified seeds and sand on the top of the mix. Keep the container moist by covering it with a tent made of toothpicks and plastic wrap.

3. Keep the container in a sunny yet cool area. Wait until after the last frost to transplant the seedlings outside.

4. Thin the plants to one foot apart the first year. The plants begins to get crowded as they grow. Separate during the second year to two feet apart as the plant nears its full height of 4 feet.

Tags: Keep container

Signs Of Epididymitis

Epididymitis is the inflammation of the epididymis, a coiled structure attached to the upper part of each male testis that stores and carries sperm. Epididymitis can be painful, but it is not life threatening. Although it is most common in males between the ages of 19 and 35, males at any age can have it. There are many causes and signs of epididymitis.

Infection

One of the causes of epididymitis is an infection, which is usually bacterial and rarely fungal. Infections can be the result of a sexually transmitted disease like gonorrhea or chlamydia. Prostate or urinary tract infections may also cause bacterial infections in the epididymis. Surgery or procedures in which a urinary catheter or scope is inserted in the penis can introduce bacteria that may result in infection.

Signs of epididymitis caused by infection include testicle pain, swelling, tenderness, chills and fever that can last up to six weeks, a lump on the testicle, redness, blood in the semen, a discharge from the penis, discomfort in the lower abdomen and enlarged lymph nodes in the groin.

Enlarged Prostate

If an enlarged prostate obstructs the flow of urine, causing urine to remain in the bladder, the risk of bladder infections is increased and thus the risk of contracting epididymitis.

Non-infectious Causes

Viruses can cause epididymitis, as can trauma to the testicles, such as a physical blow. Urine reflux may also cause inflammation, as can a rupture of sperm ducts that can leak sperm fluid into the surrounding tissue. Some diseases, such as tuberculosis, can trigger epididymitis. Whether or not the condition is caused by an infection, one of the common signs of epididymitis is that only one testicle will be affected.

Idiopathic Causes

The medical profession admits that sometimes epididymitis is "idiopathic," meaning the cause is unknown. The signs of non-infectious and idiopathic epididymitis are similar to those caused by infection but without fever or chills. Regardless of the cause, epididymitis can be painful, annoying and depressing, especially when it creates discomfort during intercourse.

Treatment

Consult your doctor when signs of epididymitis occur. If it is caused by infection, doctors will prescribe antibiotics. Whatever the cause, anti-inflammatory medicine such as ibuprofen, available over the counter, is helpful in reducing inflammation and pain. When lying in bed at night, support the weight of your scrotum by rolling a soft bath towel and placing it between your legs beneath the inflamed parts. During the day, wear a jock strap or two pairs of jockey shorts to support the testicles. Apply either an ice bag or heat from a hot-water bottle or electric heating pad to the inflamed area. Use cold or heat, depending on whichever gives the most comfort. Always empty your bladder before lifting any heavy objects. Drink plenty of fluids and get lots of rest. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary.

Tags: caused infection, also cause, cause epididymitis

Herbal Medications That Can Be Used To Get Pregnant

Many cultures around the world have traditionally used herbal medications to help women get pregnant. Although Western medicine does not promote the use of herbal medications for fertility, herbs are commonly recommended by alternative medicine practitioners. Little scientific research has been done to determine the effectiveness of herbal medications for fertility, but a few studies suggest that certain herbs may have benefits for couples trying to conceive.

Forms

Chiropractic Care For Constipation

Although constipation is a symptom that just about everyone experiences at some point in time, most people are uncomfortable talking to a doctor about their bowel problems. However, serious health conditions can occur if constipation is left untreated. While most cases of constipation stem from not eating enough fiber, lack of exercise or not drinking enough liquids, some constipation problems are linked to the nerve system. Chiropractic care is a common constipation treatment, especially when nerve cells are the root cause.

What Defines Constipation

A person who has a bowel movement less than three times a week is considered constipated. In addition, stools are hard, small and dry, making them difficult to pass through the anal canal. Many people who are constipated feel bloated and experience discomfort from having a full bowel. Straining also occurs from trying to push the stool out.

Treating Constipation

In many cases, relief for constipation is as simple as changes in diet, increased exercise and taking a laxative or stool softener. It may be necessary for you to incorporate flax into your diet, to cut down on saturated fats and to eliminate refined foods, dairy, sugars, alcohol and caffeine. But if you experience constipation frequently despite making dietary and lifestyle changes, look into alternative therapies.

Several herbs act as a laxative or help with digestion. The most common are licorice root, ginger, dandelion root and fennel seed, which are taken by steeping in tea. In addition to these treatments, chiropractic care may be needed to manipulate areas causing the bowel problem.

Chiropractic Adjustments for Chronic Constipation

Lower spine adjustments help cure chronic constipation by easing pressure on nerve roots stemming from the spine. The lower part of the spine is where the nerve roots of the celiac ganglion connect. This is the nerve center for the gallbladder, stomach, small intestine, spleen, liver, kidney and colon. When there is pressure on these nerve roots, constipation is one of the symptoms that can result. Besides the lower part of the spine, chiropractic adjustments of the upper cervical and cranial bones may address constipation problems.

Several case studies indicate the success of chiropractic adjustments to treat constipation in infants, children and adults. A 2000 study conducted by chiropractor J.M. Hunt and published in the Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics, Vol. 5, No. 1, illustrates how upper cervical adjustments cured constipation in an infant who had suffered a broken left clavicle during birth. In a 1993 case report published in Chiropractic Technique, August 1993, 5(3): 101-103, chiropractor E.G. Hewitt used a spine and cranial adjustment to relieve a 7-month-old girl's chronic constipation. Australian chiropractors in a 1992 survey published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 15:171-180, confirms that individuals suffering from constipation benefit from chiropractic adjustments.

By correcting misaligned vertebrae through chiropractic adjustments, normal bowel functions are likely to return.

Tags: chiropractic adjustments, nerve roots, chronic constipation, constipation problems, lower part

Chinese Treatment For Shingles

Shingles is also known as herpes zoster; it affects one or more nerves and the skin over them. Usually limited to one side of the body, shingles cause a painful blistering rash. There is a Chinese herbal treatment available for shingles.

Who is Affected?

Shingles usually occurs between the ages of 50 and 70, but can occur at any age. It only affects people who have been previously affected by the virus that causes chicken pox (varicella zoster).

Causes

The virus causing shingles is likely to be reactivated when the immune system is weakened. A weak immune system may be due to age, the use of immunosuppressants, certain disorders and inadequate nutrition.

Symptoms

Shingles usually causes abnormal sensations in affected parts of the body a few days before the rash appears. The abnormal sensations may be itching, numbness, deep pain, extreme sensitivity to touch and a "pins and needles" feeling.

Chinese Formula for Shingles

The herbal formula, Sheng Ma Ge Gen Tang (cimicifuga and kudzu decoction), is used to treat shingles. The formula effectively reduces rashes and fever, clears the stomach, opens pores to expel heat and cool the blood, clears infection and relieves toxicity.

Nutrition as Treatment

Chinese physicians ascribe shingles to damp heat or chronic infection of the gall bladder duct. The doctors treat shingles by recommending a diet free of gluten and red meat, and the inclusion of fish, chicken and fresh vegetables.

Further Treatment

To provide relief from blisters caused by shingles, Chinese physicians recommend saline baths.

Tags: abnormal sensations, Chinese physicians, immune system, Shingles usually, treat shingles

Gain Weight Naturally

For most people, gaining weight is not the problem, losing it is. However, there are people who can eat large quantities of food and not gain an ounce. That sounds like a blessing, but those individuals who must go through life with little meat on their bones, and they tend to eat all the wrong things because they can get away with it. If you are looking for ways to naturally increase their weight and become healthier at the same time, this article is for you.

Instructions

1. Stay away from greasy food and limit your stops at the fast food restaurants. You can increase your intake of calories by eating this kind of food, but it is not good for your body. Replace those foods with things that are more healthful.

2. Recognize that not all fats are bad for you. Omega 3 fatty acids are sound additions to your diet, and they are contained in fish and walnuts, among other foods.

3. Increase your daily ingestion of calories by 500. For example, if you normally eat 2,500 calories in a day's time, increase that to 3,000. For many, that is difficult to do when you limit yourself to three meals each day. Consider adding a fourth or fifth meal if the added calories warrant it.

4. Supplement your diet with nutritional drinks. There is a huge variety on the market today and they can be found at most supermarkets and health food stores. You can also create your own favorite concoction of healthful shakes. Also, you might consider adding Omega 3 fatty acid and flax seed oil.

5. Begin an exercise routine and choose exercises that will enhance your program of weight-gain. Since you should be intent on increasing the calories in your diet, adding cardio exercises is unproductive because they typically burn calories. Rather, think about lifting weights or doing exercises routinely that focus on resistance training. You will be transforming fat into muscle. Adopting a proper exercise regimen will encourage weight-gain and better overall health.

Tags: your diet, because they, Omega fatty

Crohn'S Disease & Skin Problems

Crohn's Disease is a chronic, incurable disease where the immune system attacks the body's digestive tract, causing stomach pain, diarrhea, bleeding, weight loss, fatigue and other problems. Crohn's Disease is known as a systemic disease, meaning that the disease processes can affect areas of the body outside of the digestive tract, and there are several ways in which Crohn's Disease affects the skin.

Erythema Nodosum

Erythema nodosum is a Latin/medical term meaning, literally, "red bumps" or "red nodules." These painful little red bumps are commonly known to appear on the arms and legs (usually the shin and ankle regions) of people with Crohn's Disease. They generally only emerge during flare-ups in disease activity and are more common among women than men.

Pyoderma Gangrenosum

Pyoderma gangrenosum are painful, pus-filled sores or ulcerations that form on the legs (again mostly the shin and ankle areas) and arms of Crohn's Disease patients. They can start as small blisters, but they can eventually cluster together causing larger ulcerous sores. Like erythema nodosum, their appearance usually coincides with disease activity. Pyoderma gangrenosum are treated with antibiotics, topical medications and some medications must be injected directly into the ulcer.

Enterocutaneous Fistulas

Enterocutaneous fistulas are small channels or tunnels that form due to the ongoing inflammation in the digestive tract and then create a connection between loops of bowel and the skin, usually in the rectal area. Because they usually come from the bowel, enterocutaneous fistulas can cause stool and bacteria to leak into the body, or outside as well, when the fistulas open out from the skin. Treatments include antibiotics, some surgical procedures and the new biologic drugs show much promise here as well.

Skin Tags

Skin tags are a less severe manifestation of Crohn's Disease on the skin. Most commonly, these small, extra-thickened flaps of skin (callous-like) form around inflamed areas of the anus, especially hemorrhoids. Good hygiene and skincare usually avoid complications to the skin tags and surgery is usually seen as too risky for a rather benign problem.

Anal Fissures

Anal fissures are essentially tears in the skin around the anus from frequent diarrhea and wiping. They can be extremely painful, but many rectal creams include both antibiotics to prevent infection and a pain-relieving agent as well, in addition to soothing skin conditioners.

Aphthous Stomatitis

Aphthous stomatitis are more commonly known as canker sores. But in people with Crohn's Disease these are caused by the immune system attacking the skin, whereas they are otherwise caused by viral or bacterial infections. There is no way to prevent their formation around the mouth, lips and gums and even down into the throat. Treatment may include antibiotic rinses and pain-relieving mouthwashes.

Conclusion

Because Crohn's Disease can leave its sufferers severely malnourished, many other skin conditions, usually stemming from vitamin and mineral deficiencies, can develop. The above conditions are the most frequently seen skin problems in Crohn's Disease.

Tags: Crohn Disease, digestive tract, body outside, commonly known, disease activity, immune system, people with

Difference Between Cedar Leaf Oil & Cedarwood Oil

Cedar tree

Cedarwood oil and cedar leaf oil are essential oils extracted from coniferous trees of the juniper and cypress families. They both have different properties and uses and are extracted from different parts of the tree. The first record of cedar oil use is by the ancient Sumerians, who used it as a base for paints. The branches and wood chips of the trees, containing the oils, are still used to repel insects and pests from dog kennels and barns. Most of the world's supply of both oils comes from the U.S. and China.

Source

Cedar leaf oil is made from the foliage and branch ends of the arbor vitae or white cedar (Thuja occidentalis) by steam distillation. It can also be made from the foliage of the western red cedar (Thuja plicata).

Cedarwood oil is extracted from sawdust or chips of wood from the red cedar tree (Juniperus virginiana) and other cedar and juniper species. Extraction is by steam distillation. The process uses wood that would otherwise be discarded.

Chemical Composition

The main active components of cedar leaf oil are thujones, along with fenchone.

Cedarwood oil is made up of cedrenes and other sesqueterpenes as well as cedrol and widdrol.

Appearance

Cedar leaf oil is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a fresh, sharp smell and hints of camphor.

Cedarwood oil is yellow to dark brown viscous liquid that can crystalize over time. It smells woody or earthy. Cedarwood oil is much more viscous than cedar leaf oil.

Uses

Cedarwood oil was used by the ancient Egyptians during the embalming of mummies but today cedarwood oil is used for its fragrance in household cleaning products, deodorants and soaps. Cedarwood oils extracted from different cedar and juniper trees are used in natural insect repellents. The oil is also refined into cedrol and cedryl acetate for the pharmaceutical and fragrance industries.

Cedar leaf oil contains a high proportion of thujone, the hallucinogenic component of absinthe and is regarded as an abortifacient (a substance that can trigger miscarriage).

Medical Uses

Cedarwood oil is used as an expectorant and as a topical treatment for acne.

Cedar leaf oil is used in cold remedies for its anti-congestive properties. It is the main component of Thuja Oil, used to treat genital warts. Thuja oil is said to also be an effective remedy for a wide range of ailments, including respiratory infections. The American Cancer Society warns that there is no scientific evidence to back up these claims.

Tags: extracted from, cedar juniper, Cedar leaf, cedar leaf, cedar Thuja, Cedarwood used

Alcohol Treatment Program

Alcohol addiction is a serious issue. The more you drink, the more your body gets accustomed to alcohol. This can lead to addiction. People addicted to alcohol can be prone to poor decisions, because alcohol clouds judgment. Defeating the addiction is not easy, but it can be done. There are many treatment programs. Despite their differences, they have one thing in common: The alcoholic must want to defeat his addiction.

The First Step

If you are an alcoholic, you can defeat your addiction, but only if you want to quit. The addiction can be frustrating for loved ones, especially when the alcoholic is in denial. Loved ones are not helpless, though. An intervention is one way they can help.

An alcohol intervention should take place in a nonthreatening, neutral place that does not serve alcohol and at a time when you will be sober. Family members, showing their concern for you, should have examples of how alcohol is destroying your life. Most-recent examples are the best. This should not be a time when you feel personally attacked.

Alcohol Treatment Programs

The chances of defeating alcohol addiction increase once you are ready to seek help. The best program for you depends on your personality. A standard treatment program involves detoxification. The goal is getting you sober. Detoxification is usually done through inpatient care. Once sober, you will be released for outpatient care. Outpatient care may include counseling aimed at helping you understand the negative impact alcohol has had on your life.

Other alcohol treatment programs are the 12-step and goal/reward programs. The 12-step program is likely to work for religious people. The first steps are admitting you are powerless over your addiction, and you recognize a higher power can help you defeat your addiction. The goal/reward program uses positive reinforcement to help you overcome your addiction. The program involves making goals and rewarding yourself when you reach those goals. For example, after a month without a drink you might reward yourself with a small shopping spree with the money you have saved.

Alternative Alcohol Treatment

An alternative alcohol treatment is eating better. Good nutrition is essential in defeating alcohol addiction. It can lead to a healthier mind and better decision-making. Cut down on sugars and starches and increase your protein intake. Sugars are often found in sodas and sweets such as cookies and candy. Peanuts and meat products are good sources of protein. Taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement can also help.

Tags: your addiction, alcohol addiction, Alcohol Treatment, defeat your, defeat your addiction, defeating alcohol

Chinese Remedies For Lines & Wrinkles

The mysteries of the Orient have long captured the interest and imagination of westerners. Thanks to growing globalization, bits of culture from the Far East are becoming more accessible and understood. Chinese medicine is a great example of this. Although westerners have not scientifically proved that many Chinese medicine practices actually work, they have still been used for thousands of years. When you look at those lines and wrinkles in the mirror, or worry about them popping up one day, you can turn to Chinese medicine to help.

Herbs and More

Chinese medicine is riddled with herbal remedies for just about any ailment you can consider. Natural health aids are being used with increasing frequency around the world. When looking to remedy lines and wrinkles with Chinese medicine, it is best to start incorporating herbs and natural foods into your daily routine. A great place to start is with goji berries. These are found in China and the Himalayans and are particularly high in Vitamin E, which helps to maintain healthy skin and to prevent lines and wrinkles. You can buy dried goji berries and eat them by the handful, or purchase goji berry juice. Bo he and dang gui are two types of herbal medicines that can be taken to help treat dead skin cells as well as wrinkles. These herbs can be found in a number of different creams and facial rejuvenation scrubs.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture was brought over from China to the United States in the 1970s and has, since then, become a popular alternative medicinal treatment. Acupuncturists claim to be able to treat lines and wrinkles by stimulating the blood that reaches the face and a person's "qi" or personal energy. To treat wrinkles, acupuncturists focus on the "zangu" organs, which include the lungs and the liver. The lungs help moisten skin; blood in the liver flows to the face to maintain healthy skin. Acupuncture applied directly to the face increases the tone of the muscles there and literally flattens them out so that the skin becomes taut and smooth. This treatment is similar to Botox treatments developed by western plastic surgeons.

Tags: Chinese medicine, lines wrinkles, goji berries, healthy skin, maintain healthy

Fine Motor Skills For Kids

As simple as it is, pointing is a fine motor skill.

Childhood is a time for rapid growth and development. Many of the actions that we take for granted were learned and perfected throughout our former years. Very young children are notoriously good, for instance, at picking up random objects from the floor -- the very task itself is just one of many developmental abilities which fall under the umbrella of fine motor skills.

Development

Holding a pencil correctly is a fine motor skill.

Fine motor skills are the every day activities done by using the smaller muscles of the body. The eyes should coordinate with these small muscles for fine motor success. Examples of fine motor skills are writing, buttoning, cutting, or stacking blocks -- all of which require practice and perseverance initially before they become natural actions. Fine motor skills in children are evaluated periodically to ensure that the child is developmentally on track.

Difficulties

Tasks like tying shoe laces may seem impossible with fine motor delays.

Children can experience fine motor difficulties at any stage of their development. As infants, they may not use a pincer grasp -- the use of their forefinger and thumb, to pick up small objects like peas. A preschooler may be unable to correctly position his fingers around a pencil, making writing or drawing appear sloppy. If a fine motor difficulty is suspected, parents should consult with the child's pediatrician to determine how best to proceed.

Activities

Rolling play dough is beneficial.

Children learn best through play, so any activities to improve fine motor skills should be approached in a fun manner. Give a child some play dough and ask her to roll small balls with it, or ask her to cut paper with plastic scissors. Play games with dried rice or beans, racing with the child to pick up each grain with her fingers. Provide dried pasta tubes to lace onto a piece of yarn, or washable paints to create finger masterpieces. With imagination, improving fine motor skills in children is effective.

Things to Remember

An upright surface is best to practice on.

When developing fine motor skills an upright work space is best. It allows the child space to move using his shoulder and arm muscles. An art easel, blackboard or wipe off board is an ideal tool in helping the child because it forces him to bend his wrist, which strengthens the muscles. It also promotes good thumb movement, which is integral to fine motor skills.

Tags: fine motor, fine motor skills, motor skills, motor skills, fine motor, fine motor skill, motor skill

Relieve Nervousness At An Interview

Smile often during your interview to mask your nervousness.

It is natural to feel nervous before and during a job interview. There's a lot on the line, and the first impression you make can direct whether you go further in the hiring process. Preparing for the interview, anticipating the questions and practicing help to relieve nervousness before the interview. Implementing relaxation techniques and just being yourself help to reduce anxiety during the interview.

Instructions

1. Dress in a comfortable but professional suit. Wearing clothing that is ill-fitting or inappropriate will not allow you to feel at ease. Though you may be dressing up more than usual, you don't want to worry about your appearance before or during the interview.

2. Recognize that the interviewer was once in your position. He understands where you are in your career because he was once in the interview chair. Ask him questions about how long he's been with the company and his career path. The interviewer might enjoy talking about himself, giving you pause to listen and take the pressure off talking about yourself.

3. Project a realistic image of yourself and do not try to be someone you are not. The image you present at an interview should reflect your true personality. Realize that the worst-case scenario is that you stumble and don't answer the questions the way you planned. As long as you are pleasant and have the experience for the job, a touch of nervousness should not prevent the interviewer from considering you for the position.

4. Anticipate the interview questions in advance and practice your answers. Recall standard interview questions you had before, and decide ahead of time how you will respond. Preparation relieves the anxiety that the unexpected can bring. In addition, having answers readily available makes you appear polished and quick to respond.

5. Conduct breathing techniques prior to going into the interview to relieve stress. Should you become nervous at the interview or before responding to a question, pause for a few seconds, take a deep, but not obvious, breath and exhale slowly. This allows your heart rate to slow and your mind to clear for the moment.

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Chinese Herb Safety

Chinese Herb Safety

In most cases, Chinese herbs are very safe, especially when used as directed. However, in some cases, herbs may have safety issues that you should consider. These issues range from interactions with other drugs and herbs to potential contamination.

Herbal Toxicity

In some cases, Chinese herbs taken in very large quantities may have toxic effects. In most cases, with such herbs as xanthium, the toxicity is limited to headache, nausea or other mild symptoms of overdose. In other cases, overdose can cause kidney damage.

Guang Fang Ji, Radix Aristolochia Fangchi, was implicated in kidney damage caused by a diet treatment regimen in Belgium. However, the Guang Fang Ji was a cheaper ingredient used to replace Han Fang Ji, a harmless herb, in the diet treatments in question. Guang Fang Ji is, in fact, a recognized Chinese herbal remedy that is safe when used in small does and as directed. In the Belgian case, the quantity of the herb used as an adulterant in the original formula was the issue.

Interactions With Other Herbs

In rare cases, two combined herbs may trigger an adverse reaction as in the case of Guang Fang Ji combined with other herbs that have nephrotoxic or hepatoxic properties.

Interaction With Western Medicine

There can be a number of interactions between Chinese medicinal herbs and Western prescription or over-the-counter medications. In some cases, the Chinese herb ginseng can interact with phenelzine sulfate, an anti-depressant, to trigger headaches or manic episodes. Ginkgo biloba leaf, often taken as a memory enhancer and brain tonic, can interact with warfarin to cause bleeding. Ha huang can interact with several common Western medicines to trigger hypertension or cardiac arrhythmia.

Chemical Contamination

A number of cases of contaminated Chinese herbs have surfaced. Cultivated herbs can be contaminated with pesticides, although most herbal farmers no longer rely on pesticides because of their toxicity and tendency to reduce the value of the treated crop with buyers.

Some herbs, such as ginseng, are treated with fungicides early in their growth cycle. If done properly, the fungicide is naturally removed through rain and watering practices. However, if applied too close to harvest time, some may remain on the root.

Heavy metals, such as mercury and arsenic, have been found in some Chinese-made herbal preparations. Those metals are sometimes intentionally added in very small quantities because of certain curative properties, however Western herbal remedy manufacturers do not add these compounds.

Microbial Contamination

Cases of microbial contaminants in animal products used in Chinese medicine are rare, but do occur. Chinese medicinal products imported into the U.S. are irradiated to kill any microbes that could cause disease.

In some cases, raw herbs may rehydrate over time and begin to grow mold or mildew. These contaminations are because of mishandling of the herbs, which should be refrigerated even in a dry state, if they are susceptible to mold and mildew. Reputable Chinese medical suppliers and practitioners are familiar with proper herbal handling procedures.

Tags: Guang Fang, some cases, cases Chinese, Chinese herbs, interact with

What Is Sweet Almond Oil Used For

What Is Sweet Almond Oil Used for?

Sweet almond oil is one of the most well-known and commonly used carrier oils. With its light, nongreasy weight and high fatty acid content that can nourish and soothe skin, sweet almond oil is popular as a massage oil and bath additive.

Identification

Sweet almond oil is an emollient oil extracted from the nuts of the sweet almond tree (Prunus amygdalus var. dulcis). The sweet almond oil is almost clear with a light yellow tint and a sweet, nutty fragrance.

Significance

Sweet almond oil is one of the most common massage oils in the bodywork trade, and many massage therapists use the oil straight as a massage lubricant. In aromatherapy carrier oil blends, sweet almond oil is a frequent component of any carrier oil blend, or used singly when a light, nongreasy oil is desired.

Features

Sweet almond oil has many features that make it unique as a carrier oil. It absorbs into the skin with medium-fast speed and is a nongreasy moisturizer. It is inexpensive to produce, but will go rancid quickly when exposed to light and air unless it is mixed with more stable oils, like wheat germ oil or jojoba oil. Even just adding 10 percent of another oil to your sweet almond oil will help keep it from spoiling.

Benefits

Sweet almond oil is known for its many skin benefits. While it is used for all skin types, sweet almond oil is particularly effective for dry skin that is prone to itching and irritation. The oil is a nice choice for the natural oil cleansing method because it is light, moisturizing and doesn't leave a greasy residue on the skin once it absorbs.

Effects

Sweet almond oil has a naturally warming or heating effect, making it a great choice for a massage oil. This heating effect is just one reason why sweet almond oil is used in muscle tension and pain relief aromatherapy blends. The absorbing effect of sweet almond oil makes it popular to mix with essential oils.

Considerations

As with all oils, the purity of the carrier oil is important whenever it's used directly on the skin, whether in a massage setting or for homemade bath and body products. Cold pressed oils prevent the formation of trans-fatty acids. Oils made from organically grown nuts help minimize pesticides or other harmful chemicals being transmitted through the sweet almond oil.

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Herbal Remedies For Acne Scars

People who have suffered with acne are prone to acne scarring, but there are many great herbal remedies for acne scars available right in your own kitchen.

Baking Soda

Baking soda works great to fade the hyper-pigmentation type of acne scarring. The baking soda alkalizes your skin, making it easier for your skin to heal. Massage a little onto your skin with water twice a day and rinse.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil, an anti-fungal, reduces redness and allows the skin to heal faster. Dab a little tea tree oil onto the acne scars using a cotton swab.

Vitamin E Oil

Massaging a little bit of vitamin E oil into the skin twice a day can soften the skin and improve the appearance of acne scars. The vitamin E oil fights the free radicals that attack the skin, allow it to heal faster.

Vitamin F

Vitamin F, otherwise known as the omega fatty acids, help decrease facial scarring from the inside out. You can find the omega fatty acids in supplement form, or you can eat it in the form of flaxseed oil or oily fish, such as salmon.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A helps to rebuild the cellular structure of the skin and helps in the production of collagen. You can find high amounts of vitamin A in carrots and squash, or you can take it in supplement form.

Tags: acne scars, your skin, acne scarring, fatty acids, heal faster, omega fatty

Assemble A Cleansing Footbath

An ionic cleansing footbath helps rid your body of harmful toxins. Many chiropractors offer cleansing footbaths to clients for a fee that is based on 30-minute to 60-minute treatment sessions. If you like to detox often, it is more economical for you to purchase your own footbath system, which is very easy to assemble. However, if you have pre-existing medical conditions, you should consult your doctor to ensure that it is safe to use the system. If you are using a pacemaker or have heart conditions, you should not use a footbath system.

Instructions

1. Place a plastic liner inside of the footbath unit.

2. Place the ion generator, the metal plate that comes with the footbath unit, inside the bottom of the unit.

3. Connect the power cord to the metal plate.

4. Place enough lukewarm water inside of the footbath unit to cover both of your feet.

5. Place 1/8 tsp. of salt in the water. The salt will increase conductivity in the water to draw out toxins.

6. Plug the power cord into an electrical outlet. Power on the unit and enjoy your footbath. After your footbath, simply turn the unit off, disassemble it, empty the water and remove the plastic liner. You can use a sanitizing solution to sanitize the footbath unit after use.

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Make A Bandito Skullcap

Fold a bandanna to make a bandito skullcap.

Traditionally, a skullcap referred to a small, brimless, close-fitting cap, often made of silk or velvet, worn on the crown of the head. Different types of skullcaps are worn across a variety of cultures and religions for a wide range of reasons. These days many people are either buying versions of bandito-style skullcaps in stores or fashioning their own skullcaps out of a bandanna or scarf.

Instructions

1. Lay your bandana open and flat.

2. Holding one corner, fold it over toward the opposite corner, forming a triangle.

3. Place the folded bandana over your head so that the long folded edge is pressed against your forehead and the corners that were brought together are pointing toward the back of your head.

4. Bring together the three corners of the folded bandana at the back of your head with your hands. Pull these corners tightly.

5. Tie the two corners of the folded edge together in a tight knot at the back of your head, while making sure to keep the corner pointing toward the back of your head under the knot.

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South Carolina Private Practice Regulations

The South Carolina legislature addresses the essence of its power to regulate the private practice of certain occupations, professions and trades in the South Carolina Code of Laws, Section 40-1-10 (extent of regulation). To administer this power, the legislature created the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR), which regulates a total of 111 different private practices with 39 professional and occupational boards through 33 different chapters in the South Carolina Code of Regulations.

Code of Regulations

Throughout the 103 active chapters of the South Carolina Code of Regulations, about one-third of them specifically empower the LLR to control the manner in which private individuals enter into and manage the private practice of their various occupations, professions and trades.

These regulations cover all aspects of the private practice of occupations, professions and trades ranging from accountants to wrestlers. The various regulations also empower LLR to enforce state mandates upon private practice.

Division of Professional and Occupational Licensing

LLR regulates the private practice of occupations, professions and trades through its Division of Professional and Occupational Licensing, which consists of the Office of Board Services (OBS), the Office of Investigations and Enforcement and the Office of Licensure and Compliance.

OBS oversees 39 professional and occupational boards. The basic standards that mostly all of these boards regulate and enforce, for the application and maintenance of a private practice license, include: general application requirements, including examinations; private practice privileges based on the occupation, profession or trade; continuing education requirements; and peer review.

Extent of Regulation

South Carolina law confirms that people have the right to engage in the private practice of the occupation, profession or trade of their choice. The legislature cannot curtail this right, but it can regulate the privilege of exercising this right through its police powers when it is clearly found that doing so is essential to protect the general public's health, safety and welfare from potential harm.

Tags: South Carolina, occupations professions, occupations professions trades, private practice, private practice, professions trades, Carolina Code

Causes Of Heart Palpatations

Arrhythmias, which are the result of abnormal electrical activity in the heart, can cause the heart to beat either faster or slower. These irregular heartbeats are more common than you might think, as millions of Americans each year experience a fluttering sensation in their chest at some time. Other people may feel as if their heart skipped a beat. While most times it is nothing to worry about, schedule a visit with your doctor if you have reason for concern.

Types

There are different types of arrhythmias, which can cause heart palpitations. Electrical disturbances that cause the heart to beat faster occur in the upper chambers of the heart. This is known as atrial tachycardia and is not serious in most people. However, ventricular arrhythmias, which are the result of irregular and rapid electrical signals in the lower chambers of the heart, are caused by heart disease and, therefore, are much more serious. Often triggered by scarring from a previous heart attack, the abnormally fast rate at which the heart beats prevents the heart muscle from pumping enough blood to the rest of the body. Bradycardia is an arrhythmia that causes a slower than normal heartbeat. In many cases, no treatment is required, but some older people in particular may need a pacemaker to stimulate the heart muscle to contract and keep it from beating too slowly.

Symptoms

While some people are not aware of the changes in the pattern of their heart's normal rhythm, other people report experiencing a fluttering sensation or feeling weak, dizzy and faint. Additional symptoms experienced by individuals who suffer ventricular arrhythmias include fatigue, shortness of breath and chest pain. The lack of blood flow to the brain and coronary arteries that can occur from the change in the rate of a person's heartbeat may cause one or more of these symptoms during an attack.

Causes

Atrial tachycardias can be caused by high blood pressure, heart attack, hyperthyroidism, a pulmonary embolism, emphysema, coronary heart disease, congestive heart failure or excessive alcohol consumption. Ventricular arrhythmias are life-threatening and are usually associated with a major heart attack. In some cases, a low potassium level or cardiomyopathy may be the cause. Slow arrhythmias are usually a side effect of medications such as beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers. These medications may interfere with the heart's ability to pump blood. While most people experience no serious problems related to bradycardia, in extreme cases, the condition can lead to blood pressure dropping so low that a person passes out.

Warning

Medications, which are prescribed to treat arrhythmias, can sometimes actually disrupt the heart's normal rhythm. Diuretics often prescribed to lower blood pressure can deplete the body of certain minerals such as sodium, calcium, potassium, magnesium, electrolytes and ions that play a crucial role in sending out the electrical signals in the heart.

Diagnosis

The type of arrhythmia involved must first be determined before the proper treatment can be administered. A physician may order tests to rule out diseases affecting the heart muscle, valves or coronary arteries. These usually include blood tests to measure potassium, magnesium, calcium, blood sodium and thyroid hormone levels. In some cases, medication levels may be evaluated. Other tests may include an electrocardiogram (EKG) to measure the heart's electrical activity, exercise treadmill test to detect palpitations upon physical exertion, or wearing a rhythm monitoring device for 24 hours to record palpitations throughout the period. Sometimes echocardiography is used to take a closer look at the chambers of the heart. Cardiac catheterization may be ordered if coronary artery disease is the suspected cause of arrhythmia.

Treatment

Doctors usually advise people who suffer arrhythmias or other heart conditions to reduce emotional and physical stress in their lives. People who smoke are advised to quit smoking, as well as reduce alcohol and caffeine consumption. Medications may be prescribed to slow the heart rate or convert fibrillation to normal heart rhythm and restore the heart muscle to its regular pumping action. Use of blood thinners may be required for individuals at high risk for stroke. To correct more serious cases of arrhythmias, an artificial pacemaker may be surgically placed beneath the skin to send electrical impulses to the heart. In other more severe cases, an automatic defibrillator is placed in a person's chest to shock the heart when needed. This method of treatment is for people who have serious ventricular arrhythmias, which can lead to sudden death. When it comes to any type of heart disease or defect, it is important to lower cholesterol, restrict sodium intake, and eat a low fat diet.

Tags: heart muscle, blood pressure, cause heart, chambers heart, heart attack, heart disease

Weight Loss Through Exercise

Weight Loss Through Exercise

To lose weight, it is necessary to burn more calories than you consume. Some choose to take in fewer calories without changing their activity level, while others choose to reduce their daily amount of calories and include some exercise. However, it is possible to lose weight while maintaining the same calorie consumption by including calorie-burning exercise in your daily schedule.

Aerobic Exercise and Weight Loss

Research has found that optimal fat burning requires at least 60 minutes of continuous aerobic activity. Any activity burns more calories than remaining sedentary, but to get the best effect, the heart rate must remain in the target zone for at least one hour. Workout routines should be gauged by fitness level as well as the goal for weight loss in a specified time. A great way to ensure weight loss success through exercise is to choose two or three different activities and do them on different days.

Calorie-Burning Exercise Routines

When done every day without consuming additional calories, several types of workout can prompt a weight loss of 1 to 11/2 pounds each week.

The following activities and calorie amounts are based on a one hour continuous workout by a 150-lb. person. At the top of the list are high-impact step aerobics and general martial arts. Both burn off an average of 720 calories. Some other workout activities known to burn more than 500 calories per hour are low-impact step aerobics, moderate stationary bicycling, circuit training, rollerblading and running at 5 miles per hour.

Additional or Alternative Exercise Routines

You do not have to exercise for a full hour to burn calories. You can burn 500 calories by exercising two or three times a day. For example, taking four 20-minute brisk walks a day will burn 480 calories (based on a weight of 150 lbs.). Team sports, such as football, hockey or volleyball are also great calorie burners. For best results, team sports should be done in addition to regular workout routines.

Interval Training

Interval training forces the body to work harder to recover while exercising. It burns fat faster and increases aerobic capacity. This type of exercise consists of working out at a slower speed for a few minutes, switching to a rapid pace for a short period and then returning to the slower pace again without stopping. Examples include moderate/brisk walking, running or cycling. You can also do interval training on a treadmill or stair climber.

Caution

If you have a health condition, you may need to modify your exercise routine to fit your particular needs. It is important to consult with a doctor before beginning any exercise routine.

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Treat Lupus Naturally

Lupus is an autoimmune disorder where the body attacks its own connective tissue, or collagen. Symptoms include achy joints, fever, nausea, facial rash, and more. Safer drugs have become available to combat lupus but steroids can cause damage to the liver, eyes and bones. However, there is a natural treatment still available today.

Instructions

1. Use herbs that promote detoxification like aloe vera juice and Pau d'arco, which is a blood cleanser. Reduce inflammation with flaxseed oil, cat's claw and omega 3 fatty acids.

2. Take supplemental DHEA, a hormone produced by the adrenal gland. Women should take 15 to 25 mg per day while men should ingest 50 mg per day.

3. Receive acupuncture to increase circulation of blood and reduce pain. Each individual will have a tailored plan.

4. Exercise 3 to 5 days per week. This helps to detoxify the body and build body strength.

5. Cleanse the body with enemas and colonics, which can alleviate lupus symptoms. Colloid metal supplements have detoxifying and antifungal effects, which clear arthritic symptoms.

6. Maintain the gastrointestinal tract to improve immunity. Probiotic formulas containing FOS supply your body with good bacteria. Milk thistle also helps to supports the liver.

7. Alleviate joint pain with aromatic oils such as pine and cedar tree. Relax with a drop of chamomile on the palms, cupping around the nose.

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Ear Ache Remedies Using Garlic

Children are usually the most at risk for earaches, but people of all ages can be affected. Earaches can result from swimming, getting water in the ear during a shower, pollen in the air getting trapped in the Eustachian tubes of the ear or even excessive wax buildup. As garlic is a natural antibiotic, there are some garlic-based remedies that can be administered at home.

Signs of an Earache

A dull ache within the ear or a sudden sharp pain is usually a sign of an earache and possibly an infection. Other symptoms may or may not include fever, having a stopped-up feeling in the ear, difficulty in hearing, drainage in the form of pus or blood and itching.

Garlic Drops

One home remedy is to try making garlic-based oil to put in the ear. Crush a clove of garlic, and put it in a small jar with olive oil completely enveloping the garlic. Let it sit for 2-3 days for the ingredients to emulsify or blend together. Heat a teaspoon of the oil slightly and pour into the painful ear with a spoon. Keep the head tilted up for five minutes, then place a cotton ball in the ear. This can be done up to four times a day. This home remedy is best made before an earache develops and then stored until needed.

Garlic Herbs

Take one herbal garlic tablet daily to boost the immune system. This will help the immune system fight off infection.

Garlic Clove

Fresh garlic cloves can be used in several ways. Place a peeled clove of garlic at the opening of the ear canal, and hold it there for a few minutes to allow the juice from the garlic to trickle into the ear. This will fight infection and reduce pain. Eating a whole clove of garlic several times a day will aid earaches as well. Ingesting whole cloves is easier for adults than children. Children will do better with the garlic drops or by placing the fresh garlic at the ear canal.

Caution

It is important to keep the ears clean and dry. Do not poke any objects down into the ear as this might puncture the ear drum, leading to an even more serious problem. Extreme sharp pain, blood coming out of the ears or a loss of hearing need to be addressed by a physician.

Tags: clove garlic, fight infection, home remedy, immune system, sharp pain, This will

Cervical Cancer Signs

Cervical cancer has no outward signs or symptoms until it is advanced. However, some signs of cervical cancer are apparent to doctors when you have a pap test. If you want to diagnose cervical cancer early, get regular annual pap tests. However, once cervical cancer becomes more advanced, some signs and symptoms can indicate its presence.

Abnormal Bleeding

The signs of cervical cancer usually occur as a result of cancer cells spreading to tissue and organs near the cervix. For example, the cancer cells might spread to the uterus. One of the most common signs of cervical cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding. Abnormal bleeding is bleeding that occurs in between your regular periods. Heavier than normal bleeding during your period may also be a sign of cervical cancer. If you bleed after sex or when douching or getting a pelvic exam, this bleeding might also be a sign of cervical cancer. Finally, if you bleed vaginally after menopause, that might also be a sign of cervical cancer.

Increased Vaginal Discharge

An increase in vaginal discharge is another potential sign of cervical cancer. Heavier than normal or discolored vaginal discharge are common. The vaginal discharge may also have small amounts of blood in it. Again, this normally does not occur until the cancer has started advancing into other organs, usually the vulva or vagina in this case.

Other Symptoms

Other signs of cervical cancer include pain in the leg, back or pelvis. Leg pain, especially, is a sign of advanced cervical cancer. Depending on where the cancer spreads from he cervix, you may also have rectal bleeding or blood in your urine. It may become difficult to urinate or use the bathroom. Finally, you might have unexplained weight loss or become anemic (as a result of excessive bleeding).

Abnromal Pap Tests

Although the outward signs of cervical cancer mentioned above don't become apparent until the cancer is advanced, some signs of cervical cancer can be identified quite early if you have an annual pap smear. Pap smears take a small scraping of cells from your cervix. The cells are examined under a microscope and evaluated for pre-cancerous changes. Pre-cancerous changes may show up years before cervical cancer develops. These pre-cancerous changes are a sign that cervical cancer may eventually happen, and when identified you can get non-invasive outpatient treatment that may prevent the cancer from ever growing.

Diagnosis

Cervical cancer is usually diagnosed as a result of a pap smear that takes cells from the cervix. Approximately 11,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year in the U.S. Most women diagnosed with cervical cancer are 40 years of age or older.

Tags: cervical cancer, signs cervical, signs cervical cancer, sign cervical, sign cervical cancer, also sign

What Is The Role Of A Chiropractor

Though many people only associate chiropractors with the treatment of back and neck pain, the role of a chiropractor is much larger than just pain relief. Chiropractors are concerned about the overall physical, mental and emotional wellness and health of their patients.

Chiropractics

Chiropractics is a segment of health care that diagnoses and treats problems in the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. At the core of chiropractics is the belief that the body has the ability to heal itself, so chiropractors take a drug-free, hands-on approach to general health. They focus on the cause of the problem rather than only the symptoms.

Chiropractic Education

Chiropractors are required to complete two to four years of undergraduate study, followed by four years at a chiropractic college. To gain their license, chiropractors also must complete hands-on clinical work and pass national and state exams.

Role of Chiropractors

Chiropractors are trained to complete patient examinations, diagnose problems and perform treatment usually in the form of chiropractic adjustments. They can suggest rehabilitation exercises or therapy and provide nutritional counseling; chiropractors do not prescribe drugs or perform surgery.

Chiropractic Adjustment

The most common type of treatment performed by chiropractors is the chiropractic adjustment, which is a manual manipulation of the spine to correct minor vertebral misalignments called subluxations. This restores the correct flow of signals to and from the brain through the spinal column, allowing the nervous system and the rest of the body to function properly.

Chiropractic Specialties

Many chiropractors specialize in certain areas of care such as pediatrics, orthopedics, sports, car accident injuries, nutrition and neurology. Most of these specializations require additional training and education.

Self-Employment

Another role of many chiropractors is business owner and manager since most are self-employed. In addition to patient care, chiropractors must understand the legalities and accounting procedures involved in running a business and billing insurance companies and patients.

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Pressure Point Massage Used In Aromatherapy

Many believe that stress, because it suppresses the immune system, increases the risk for certain types of cancer and other ailments. Taking time out to relax, escape, and rejuvenate combats anxiety, helping to fortify the immune system. Pressure point massage, combined with aromatherapy, is an excellent modality for reducing stress.

History

For nearly 6,000 years, aromatherapy and massage have been used to promote health and wellness. Romans, Greeks, Egyptians and early Chinese experienced the benefits of aromatherapy oils. Egyptians were known to combine aromatherapy with massage. The Chinese created incense from aromatic plants and used it to promote harmony and balance. Today, in Europe, essential oils are prescribed by the established medical profession to restore health and relieve illnesses.

What Happens

Adding elements of aromatherapy into a pressure point massage session increases the relaxation level and provides extra healing benefits. The technician may prepare the room by lighting a sage aromatherapy candle to cleanse the atmosphere. Aromatic essential oils are mixed with the massage oil base. Each aromatherapy oil is associated with specific benefits. Lavender oils help relax the body so it doesn't resist the massage. Peppermint oil is used to invigorate the body (try it at home on tired feet). The oils chosen will affect both your body and your overall mood.

Throughout the session, the therapist will manipulate specific areas known as pressure points. The direction and pressure differs with each point. Sinus pressure points are found under the nose, between the eyebrows, below each cheekbone and on each hand in the webbed area between the pointer finger and thumb. Sinus points on the face are massaged in an upward and outward motion to help eliminate congestion through lymphatic drainage. There are thousands of other pressure points on the body, and each is a juncture where nerve bundles are located. They are sensitive, and when correctly manipulated, pain decreases and pleasure increases.

How it Works

The olfactory system is attached to the brain's limbic system. The limbic system is a complex series of nerves in the brain, near the edge of the cortex. This system manages instinct and mood. It controls basic emotions including fear, pleasure and anger.

During massage, as the oils are absorbed into the skin, their scent diffuses. The olfactory system picks up the scent and then transfers it to the limbic system. Practitioners select oils to calm, uplift or energize. They then apply pressure to specific pressure points. This pressure helps relieve the buildup of toxins and waste stored in your body. Aromatherapy oils are also commonly used to relieve stress, headaches, and back pain enhancing the physical effects of the pressure-point massage.

Benefits

Pressure point massage also aids in full body detoxification. As muscles work or "burn", waste products accumulate. This accumulation can cause soreness, stiffness, and sometimes even muscle spasms. With proper massage technique, circulation can improve and blood flow increases. Body tissues are infused with fresh oxygen. Increased circulation flushes toxins and expedites the healing of damaged tissue. In addition to body detoxification, massage is credited with fortifying the immune system, which enables the body to better fend off disease.

Aromatherapy, in combination with massage, works to improve circulation, soothe the senses, increase energy, and impart an overall sense of calm and well-being. In this respect, these two modalities are a dynamic mix.

Preparation and Follow-Up

Prior to your aromatherapy pressure point massage, get enough rest. Contrary to the belief that you get the best benefit of a massage only when you're really stressed out, it's actually best to arrive relaxed, as well as pliable; the easier you are to manipulate, the deeper the work will go.

After the session, drink plenty of water. Pressure point massage releases stored toxins into your bloodstream. To effectively eliminate those toxins, they need to be flushed out. This is achieved by consuming large amounts of pure distilled water. Try for at least 4 glasses.

Tags: point massage, pressure points, immune system, limbic system, with massage, body detoxification

Can Lasik Dry Eye Cause Bad Vision

Dry eye is the most common complication after Lasik surgery and is marked by inadequate tear production, evaporation or both, leaving dry spots on the cornea (surface). Though usually temporary, dry eyes after Lasik might become chronic in some cases.

Symptoms

Dry eye can cause irritation, grittiness, the feeling that something is in the eye and intermittent blurry, hazy or double vision.

Vision

Your vision is at its best when the eye surface is protected, and kept moist and smooth by the normal tear film, which consists of oil, water and mucus. Without adequate tear film, the surface dries and is no longer smooth, resulting in blurred or foggy vision, much like looking through frosted glass.

Cause

Severing corneal nerves during the Lasik procedure can result in decreased sensitivity of the cornea. This compromises the ability of the cornea to transmit information to tear-producing glands.

Medication Interactions

Many prescription and over-the-counter medications, particularly antihistamines and certain allergy medications, can dry out mucous membranes, aggravating dry eyes and surface irritation.

Complications

Left untreated, chronic dry eye can lead to inflammation, infection, surface damage, permanent vision problems or even blindness.

Protection

Do not rub your eyes for at least three months after Lasik surgery. Protect your eyes with sunglasses or sports goggles when you are outdoors. For severe dry eye, use protective goggles designed specifically for dry eyes to help prevent moisture evaporation when sleeping or using the computer.

Tags: after Lasik, after Lasik surgery, Lasik surgery, tear film, your eyes

Care For Lumineers On Teeth

Lumineers are thin cosmetic dental veneers made of cerinate porcelain, and are often used when a patient wishes to avoid having painful work done on their natural teeth, such as drilling and shots, but wants a more attractive smile. Lumineers are also reversible, and can be taken off without destroying the natural teeth. Caring for Lumineers is simple and follows the same rules as maintaining natural teeth. This guide will show you care for your Lumineers smile.

Instructions

1. Maintain good oral hygiene. Simply keeping good oral habits is the best way to care for your Lumineers and extend their lifetime expectancy. Brush your teeth regularly with toothpaste containing fluoride, and floss after meals to prevent food particle build-up that could damage your Lumineers. Gum health is also very important. Using a mouthwash like Listerine can kill any bacteria that resides on the gum line.

2. Don not bite hard objects like fingernails and pins. The lifespan of Lumineers may decrease if exposed to hard objects on a continual basis. Try to avoid biting your fingernails or putting any objects in your mouth like pen caps, bobby pins and ice.

3. Keep your consumption of dark drinks like tea and coffee to a minimum. Like natural teeth, Lumineers may stain when exposed to dark liquids. The bonding cement that holds the Lumineers to your teeth is especially vulnerable to staining, so it is very important to keep food particles and staining liquids away from it.

4. Visit a dentist every six months for a cleaning and check-up.

Tags: natural teeth, your Lumineers, care your, care your Lumineers, good oral

Who Invented The Electric Toothbrush

An early electric toothbrush was produced in Switzerland in 1939, but it did not sell well and was quickly taken off the market. In 1954, a dental equipment inventor created the electric toothbrush that was the prototype of the electric brushes we know today. Over 150 different types have been created since that first one.

Identification

Innovator Philippe-G. Woog invented the electric toothbrush in 1954 for E.R. Squibb and Sons. Squibb introduced the motorized contraption as the Broxodent brush in 1959 at the American Dental Association's centennial celebration and began marketing it to the public in 1960.

Time Frame