Healing Remedies with Sea Salt

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Salt is one of the easiest most affective remedies on the planet! Sea salt, a salt obtained by evaporating seawater, is used in cooking and cosmetics. Its mineral content gives it a different taste from table salt, which is usually sodium chloride refined from mined rock salt (halite), or refined from sea salt. Table salt may contain anti- caking agents and additives such as the dietary supplement iodides. Areas that produce specialized sea salt include the Cayman Islands, France, Ireland, Sicily and Apulia in Italy, and Maine and Cape Cod in the United States.

Salt is essential for life and you cannot live without it. There are enormous differences between the standard, refined table and cooking salt and healthy natural salt. The differences can have a major impact on your health.

Halite crystal (sodium chloride) occurs in seawater, along with other salts of sodium, calcium, magnesium, and other light metals. When seawater evaporates in a closed lagoon, halite and other minerals precipitate out and sink to the bottom as crystals. In this way, great beds of rock salt have been formed. Pure halite is colorless, though it is often colored by impurities. It is soft and breaks (cleaves) into cubes. Halite crystallizes in the isometric (also called cubic) crystal system and when it forms crystals, it generally forms cubes. Its most noticeable and important physical feature is that halite is readily soluble in water. This allows halite to be useful in such varied applications as cooking, food preservation, and chemical production.

Salt can be mined from rock salt either by traditional mining practices using heavy equipment underground, or by pumping hot water in pipes into the salt deposit, where the hot water dissolves the halite. The resulting salt water is then pumped to surface and evaporated to yield salt. This is called "solution mining". In some modern dry salt lakes, a crust of halite can be recovered by simply scraping the salt crust off the lake bottom with bulldozers or scrapers. Ancient rock salt is mined in Michigan, New York, Kansas, and other states. Solution mining is used to recover salt from underground "salt domes" in Louisiana and Texas. Recovery of salt from dry lakes takes place in the deserts of California, Nevada, and Utah.

Table Salt

Table salt is actually 97.5% sodium chloride and 2.5% chemicals such as moisture absorbents, and iodine. Dried at over 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, the excessive heat alters the natural chemical structure of the salt causing the potential for many health problems in your body. Table salt is not recommended in your healing arsenal.

Dead Sea Salt

The mineral content of the Dead Sea is significantly different from that of ocean water, consisting of approximately 53% magnesium chloride, 37% potassium chloride and 8% sodium chloride (common salt) with the remainder comprised of various trace elements. The concentration of sulfate, SO42-, ions is very low, and the bromide ion concentration is the highest of all waters on Earth. Chlorides neutralize most of the calcium ions in the Dead Sea and its surroundings. While in other seas sodium chloride is 97% of the salts, in the Dead Sea the quantity of NaCl is only 12-18%. Comparison between the chemical composition of the Dead Sea to other lakes and oceans show that the salt concentration in the Dead Sea is 31.5% (the salinity fluctuates somewhat). Because of its unusually high concentration of salt, anyone can easily float in the Dead Sea because of natural buoyancy as a result of the higher density of the water.

Celtic Sea Salt

This salt is unparalleled in the world. Less than 1% of the world's salt harvest has the quality of Celtic Sea Salt. Pure, moist, biologically active, and free from any chemicals or additives, this is considered "living sea salt". Celts discovered a way to harvest salt from the ocean using the sun, the wind, and shallow clay ponds. Pristine ocean channels spiral water into the concentrating ponds. The live flowing mixture is carefully stirred by the salt farmer, and dazzling crystals form and are gathered by hand. The ionizing action of the clay, combined with the artisan's skillful method, passed down through generations, enlivens the unique, bioavailable array of trace elements that exist in a perfectly balanced matrix.

Epsom Salts

This salt is a rich source of magnesium. Magnesium helps to regulate the activity of more than 325 enzymes and performs a vital role in orchestrating many bodily functions, from muscle control and electrical impulses to energy production and the elimination of harmful toxins. Epsom Salt also delivers sulfates, which are extremely difficult to get through food but which readily absorb through the skin. Sulfates serve a wide variety of functions in the body, playing a vital role in the formation of brain tissue, joint proteins and the mucin proteins that line the walls of the digestive tract. Sulfates also stimulate the pancreas to generate digestive enzymes and are believed to help detoxify the body's residue of medicines and environmental contaminants. Soak in a tub full of hot water with a few cups of Epsom Salts. This is good for relaxing muscles and drawing toxins from the body. When magnesium sulfate is absorbed through the skin, such as in a bath, it draws toxins from the body, sedates the nervous system, reduces swelling, relaxes muscles, is a natural emollient, exfoliator, and much more. Soak for 15-20 minutes.

Himalayan Crystal Salt

Himalayan Crystal Salt is salt in its native form, with all its vibrational energy intact and it helps your body return to a state of balance. Not having balanced electrolytes shifts your body out of homeostasis - the balance of chemicals that is conducive to the body's function. The renowned Frezenius Institute in Europe analyzed the Himalayan Crystal Salt and proved that it has an amazing array of important trace minerals and elements including potassium, calcium and magnesium that help your body achieve balance by restoring fluids and replenishing your supply of electrolytes whenever you sweat heavily.

Salt Water

The healing abilities of salt water are profound and well documented. Salt water is an astringent and speeds wound healing. Floating in sea water is an extreme release of tension and stress of the day. Allow yourself to float weightlessly in the water. You deserve it.

Sea Air

Deep breathing of ocean air helps us to relax and let go. The faint smell of salt in the air can take us to a place of pure joy. Sea air has a certain aliveness found no where else. This deep breathing can help release tension and the problems associated with it.

Thalassotherapy (from the Greek word thalassos, meaning "sea") is the medical use of seawater. The properties of seawater are believed to have beneficial effects upon the pores of the skin. Thalassotherapy was developed in seaside towns in France during the 19th century. Trace elements of magnesium, potassium, calcium sulphates and sodium, found in seawater, are believed to be absorbed through the skin. The therapy is applied in various forms, as either showers of warmed seawater, application of marine mud or of algae paste, or the inhalation of sea fog. Spas make hot seawater and provide mud- and seaweed wrapping services available.

Healing Salt Remedies

Sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis refers to inflammation of the sinuses that continues for weeks, months, or even years. Allergies are the most common cause of chronic sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis can persist even after antibiotics are given. It's the most frequently reported chronic disease.

Acute sinusitis occurs when bacteria invade the sinus cavities and impair proper drainage of mucus from the sinuses to the nose. Chronic inflammation of the nasal passages or rhinitis also can lead to sinusitis. Allergic rhinitis or hay fever is the most common cause of chronic sinusitis and is a frequent cause of acute sinusitis.

The common cold is the most prevalent predisposing factor to sinusitis. Acute sinusitis typically causes symptoms of nasal congestion and a thick yellow or green discharge. Other symptoms include tenderness and pain over the sinuses, frontal headaches, and sometimes chills, fever, and pressure in the area of the sinuses.

Entering bacteria gets trapped and filtered out by mucus and minute nasal hairs called cilia. This air-flow system can sometimes slow down when something impedes the cilia, if a cold clogs the sinus openings, or if an allergen swells the sinus linings. Then air gets trapped, pressure builds, the mucus stagnates, and bacteria breed. Infection sets in and you have sinusitis. When you get clogged up, you may end up with a permanent thickening of the sinus membranes and chronic congestion.

Sinus Wash

Flush out nasal secretions. Mix 1 teaspoon of non-iodized salt or sea salt with 2 cups of warm water and a pinch of baking soda. Pour it into a shot glass, tilt your head back, close one nostril with your thumb, and sniff the solution with the open nostril. Then blow your nose gently. Repeat on the other side.

An Ayurvedic solution, similar to this is done in the same manner with a Neti Pot. It looks similar to a tea pot, but with a longer, narrower spout for the nostrils. These can be found in most health food stores.

A cup or handful of water in your hand or neti pot is a wonderful cleansing therapy. Slowly inhale the salt water into your nose to cleanse your sinus and open up the air passages. Over the counter nasal washes (not nasal sprays) are available. The simplest form is a non iodized salt water spray.

Mouth Care

The tissues in the mouth can benefit greatly from sea salt.

For bleeding gums - make a paste of 1 tsp. baking soda to 1/2 tsp. sea salt...brush with this mixture 3 times per day instead of the toothpaste. You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil.

Gargle with warm salt water a few times a day to relieve a sore throat, mouth sores or canker sores.

Sea Salt Baths and Scrubs

Sea Salt Scrubs

1. Take a handful of Sea Salt
2. Moisten it into the bath water.. and
3. Gently scrub whole body in circular motion until all the body is scrubbed.
4. Pay extra attention to your feet
5. Rinse with cool clear water

Sea Salt Bath

Dead Sea Salt - 1 cups
Sea Salt - 2 1/2 cups
2 TBSP of Ground Sea Weed
1 TBSP cup of Oatmeal
1 TBSP of Kelp
2 TBSP cup of Baking Soda
1 TBSP - Vegetable Glycerin
1-2 tsp of EO Blend of Choice

Thoroughly Mix all dry ingredients, then drizzle Glycerin and EO's over them. Mix them well and store in an air tight container for several days prior to use. Mix well.

Add 1/4 cup or more under running water. Light a candle or incense and Enjoy.

Detox Bath

Fill the tub with water
1/2 cup sea salt
1/2 cup of baking soda
1/2 cup of Epsom salt
1/2 cup of peroxide
1 cup of apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon of oregano oil

Add to bath water, stir until dissolved. Bath in water for at least 20 minutes

Feng Shui Detoxification Bath

2 Cups Sea Salt
2 Cups Baking Soda
4 Tbsp. Ginger Powder

Place all ingredients in a hot bath and bathe for 20 Minutes Drink plenty of water. This bath withdraws impurities from your body and helps you to feel better. This bath can be done 2 to 3 times in a week or as needed.

Sea Salt Foot Scrub

1/2 Cup Sea Salt
1/2 Cup Epsom Salt
1/2 Cup baking soda
1 Cup Oil of grape seed oil
15 drops Peppermint Oil

Homemade Exfoliator

Mix 1/8 cup of olive oil
1 heaping tablespoon of sea salt

Use on knees and elbows in the shower and rinse off. Pat dry with a soft towel.

Negative Energy and Sea Salt

Cleansing with sea salt is a safe and effective way to clear any space of negative energy. Sea salt is obtained by evaporating seawater. Salt occurs naturally in many parts of the world as the mineral halite and as mixed evaporates in salt lakes. Underground salt deposits are found in both bedded sedimentary layers and domal deposits.

Energy in itself, is the vital source, which radiates from everything and everyone around us. When we are ill, emotionally upset, angered or imbalanced, our moods and of course, our energy is altered. Coming in contact with energy that is negative can often be sensed, even felt. The result is often a feeling of uneasiness, confusion or an opposed feeling to our current state of mind.

Cleansing with sea salt or rock salt is preferred over iodized, processed table salt.

Cleansing a room with salt can be done by placing salt in small bowls and placing them in the 4 corners for 24 hours. Take two teaspoons of sea salt and dissolve it into some warm water. Pour it into a mister or spray bottle and spray it where ever you need cleansing.

Cleansing yourself of negative vibs can be done by misting yourself for an overall clearing. Draw a bath. As the hot water is filling the tube, add two or more tablespoons of sea salt to the running water and stir it so it dissolves in the tube. Relax in your bath for 15-20 minutes.

Cleansing your crystals can be done by placing a teaspoon of sea salt into a bowl of luke warm water. Make sure the salt is dissolved, then place your crystals in the water for twenty four hours.

Adding herbs or essential oils to sea salt can give an added bonus to cleansing. Herbs such as lavender, sandalwood, tea tree, thyme, rosemary are all good compliments. When using herbs, place them in the salt and shake the salt in a closed container. This bruises the herbs and allows its essential oils to incorporate into the salt matrix. When using essential oils, add a few drops to salt and then stir or shake the salt in order to mix them well.

Seasonal Affective Disorder

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression. Most people tend to slow down a little in the winter and experience some form of "winter blues", but full-blown SAD can be extremely disabling.

SAD is often the result of the winter season when the days are shorter. People tend to sleep more, become sedentary, crave carbohydrates, gain weight, and avoid social interaction. Psychologically, they are depressed.

Attaining a balance of yin-yang or light and dark is innate in the Chinese Medicine and Feng Shui philosophies. Although we cannot see the electromagnetic frequencies of the earth or planets, it is important for us to live in an environment that allows us to be synchronized with these forces.

Many sufferers are often unable to function without continuous treatment. Depending on the person and the geographical location, the depression can last for several months with symptoms such as overeating with carbohydrate craving and weight gain, sleeping more than usual, fatigue, and social withdrawal. It is the long duration of the symptoms that distinguish SAD from the so-called holiday blues.

It is not known why some people (those between 18 and 30) are more likely to suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder and why it seems to affect women more than men ... unless the statistics are based on the fact that women are more ready to admit to depression and ask for help than men.

There are several alternative therapies for treating seasonal depression. One, which has been used with remarkable success is Light Therapy. Light and color have been valued throughout history as sources of healing. Today, the therapeutic applications of light and color are being investigated in major hospitals and research centers worldwide. Results indicate that full-spectrum, ultraviolet, colored, and laser light can have therapeutic value for a range of conditions from chronic pain and depression to immune disorders.

The oldest form of light therapy is natural sunlight, which is the ultimate source of full-spectrum light. For those living in areas that see very little sunlight this time of year, there are other options; full-spectrum light therapy, bright light therapy, various forms of UV light therapy, syntonic optometry, cold laser therapy, and visual color therapy.

For treating SAD, white light therapy is often preferred over the full-spectrum light because the additional UV light found in full-spectrum light is not necessary to achieve the antidepressant effect of the therapy, and can be harmful to the eyes. Different wavelengths stimulate different aspects of our physiology, all playing a vital role in our functioning. We especially need natural light with its subtle variations that act on our well-being. The rhythm of dark and light from day and night and the full-spectrum of light is essential to our circadian rhythms (biological clock), endocrine, immune, sexual and nervous systems.

Depression may be the result of inadequate or improper nourishment. If the brain is not receiving sufficient fuel, it will not function properly.

Vitamin B deficiency is often a physical cause of depression.

The best approach to combating depression is to eat more wholefoods, give up sugar, tea, coffee, alcohol.

L-Tyrosine is essential for alleviating stress by boosting production of adrenaline. It also raises dopamine levels which influence moods. (Do not take if you are taking an MAO inhibitor drug.) It should be taken on an empty stomach with 50 mgs Vitamin B6 and 100-500 mgs of Vitamin C for better absorption. Best taken at bedtime.

5HTP is often used in the place of SSRI drugs and L-Tryptophan and may help in serotonin deficiency related conditions such as severe depression, epilepsy, anxiety, insomnia, weight loss and addiction. Also studied for PMS, migraine and chronic tension headaches. 5-HTP is only used in serotonin production. 5- hydroxytryptophan is also able to pass through the blood-brain barrier easily, unlike tryptophan, which can only pass through the barrier by using the same transport molecule that carries leucine, isoleucine, and valine.

Increase your intake of vitamin B complex, 100 mgs 3 times daily Plus extra Vitamin B 5, 500 mgs daily, the most potent anti-stress vitamin.

Vitamin C, 2,000-10,000 mgs daily in divided doses.

Increasing your Potassium 80 mgs, Calcium 1,500-2,000 mgs daily and Magnesium 1,000 mgs daily is helpful.

Low doses of Melatonin seem to help many people by regulating balance in the body. Try using half the recommended dose for the first 3-4 days and monitor your results.

Meditating. Quieting your mind for 10-15 minutes is a wonderful release.

Aromatherapy is very effective. Jasmine and Bergamot oils are uplifting and refreshing, while lavender is calming and relaxing. Put a little on your wrists, or a piece of cloth you can carry with you. In a pan of hot water drop about 6-8 drops of oil to diffuse it into the air, or perhaps you have your own diffuser.

I always like to stress one other factor, which plays a major role in our mind-body connection. That is our belief system. It often is what you believe it to be. Your Belief System is an important part in healing.

Allow your self, change, time off, a different path. Seek what it is that is at the root of your dis-ease or comfort level. Address it. Believe that you can do that.

EXERCISE

MOVE!!!! Exercise also plays a MAJOR role in the treatment of depression.

Exercise is very helpful in depression because it stimulates circulation and releases serotonins in the brain, the hormones that encourage contentment and an all around feeling of happiness.

It not only keep the body physically and mentally fit but also provides recreation and mental relaxation. It is nature's best tranquilizer. Exercise produces chemical and psychological changes that improves your mental health. It changes the levels of hormones in blood and may elevate your beta-endorphins (mood-affecting brain chemicals). Exercise may also improve the function of the autonomic nervous system.

Exercise also gives a feeling of accomplishment and thus reduces the sense of helplessness. Some form of active exercise, must be undertaken each day at a regular hour. To be really useful, exercise should be done in such a manner as to bring into action all the muscles of the body in a natural way. Walking is one such exercise. It is , however, so gentle that one must walk several miles in a brisk manner to constitute a fair amount of exercise. Aerobics (low impact) is even better, for it increases cardiovascular health and wipes out the focus of depression and makes you feel wonderful! 3-5 days a week at 30 -40 minutes should be your goal. The depressive mood can be OVERCOME by activity. Those who are depressive will forget their misery by doing something. They should turn away from themselves and consider others. At home they can take to decorating, repairing or constructing something new. The pleasure of achievement overcomes the distress of misery. Stop making excuses!

NUTRITION

Water is essential in any healing process. Distilled water is the best. 6-8 eight ounces glasses per day.

Diet has a "profound effect" on the mental health of a person. Even a single nutritional deficiency can cause depression in susceptible people. Nutritional therapy can be used to build up brain chemicals, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, that affect mood and are often lacking in depressed people. Eat foods rich in B vitamins, such as whole grains, green vegetables, eggs and fish.

The diet of people suffering from depression should completely exclude tea, coffee, alcohol, chocolate and cola, all white flour products,sugar, food colorings, chemical additives, white rice and strong condiments.

The diet should be restricted to three meals. Fruits can be taken in the morning for breakfast with milk and a handful of nuts and seeds. Lunch may consist of steamed vegetables, whole wheat bread and a glass of butter-milk. For dinner, green vegetable salad and all available sprouts such as alfalfa seeds, cottage cheese or a glass of butter-milk would be ideal. This is one example. Do what is right for you! DO NOT over eat.

CRYSTAL THERAPY Crystal Therapy is a wonderful adjunct therapy for Seasonal Affective Disorders. Placing a crystal in your bedroom, kitchen, living room or work place is beneficial. Also, carrying the crystal in your pocket or handbag, or worn as jewelry often offers subtle but very effective results. Meditating with the crystal in the palm of your hands or sitting in front of you is another use for crystals with this disorder. A refreshing bath with the crystal in your bath water or placing the crystal on the appropriate Chakra region (often the Heart or Solar Plexus Chakra) can be very beneficial. Meditating, Chakra work and Hydrotherapy with crystals should utilize about 20 minutes (or more if it 'feels appropriate') of your time in order to reap the benefits.

Besides the excellent healing power of Quartz, clinical results have been found with the following:

Gold:

Excellent all-purpose, high level gem amplifier and electrical conductor, especially on Solar plexus and Heart Chakra. Strengthens meridians, nerve system, digestion. Positively charged with warming sun energy. Often worn by teachers/healers, especially after much self-healing (addictions, childhood...) Attracts prosperity, stores, amplifies thoughts/emotions/energy (Greed too). Yang. Pink = Gold + copper. Lovingness, warmth, spirituality. Amplifies gem effects. White: Combines sun and moon's energy, thus higher conductor and amplifier. A regenerator, helping one renew oneself. Works on the physical, mental, and spiritual planes. It benefits the nervous system and improves the ability of the nerves to transmit information in the most efficient manner. Helps digestion and helps the body in the proper assimilation of food. Benefits the circulatory system and blood. Helps control hormonal and chemical imbalances. Can be of great importance to individuals with degenerative diseases, such as heart disease or arthritis. Helps the brain work more efficiently. It works well with all crystals and gemstones. Can be used in conjunction with Copper and Silver, which aid in boosting its abilities in specific instances. Gold settings: Gold is ruled by the Sun a masculine planet, and therefore imparts a more assertive energy to crystals & minerals that are mounted in it.

Jet:

A fossilized organic matter used as a healing stone. A form of petrified wood similar to coal, though much harder. Has absorbing qualities. Helps draw out negative energy. Especially useful for people who have unreasonable fears that limit their lives. Helps control mood swings and fights deep depression. Recommended for stimulating psychic experience and guiding one in the quest for spiritual enlightenment. If worn, it should be set in silver.

Lapis Lazuli:

Solid, med. to dk. blue. In meditation, opens Brow Chakra: higher guidance, intuition, connection to higher self, overview, decisions for good of all. Organizes, quiets mind. Opens Throat/Thyroid Chakra: Self-expression, writing, creativity, dream insight, allows total awareness...Anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, autism, shyness, nervous system, depression, serenity, self-acceptance; MS, speech, hearing, pituitary, DNA, lymph, inflammation, pain (especially head), protection stone. Shelters the wearer like a shield. . Extraordinarily deep blue stone often flecked with Pyrite. Can also be mottled with white Calcite. Most is currently mined in the USSR and Afghanistan. Beneficial to the respiratory system, especially the throat and lungs, the cleansing organs, and the nervous system. A good stone for blood purification and for boosting the immune system. A powerful thought-amplifier and is helpful in aligning all the elements of the body and mind. Can increase psychic abilities and will open the third eye. Can guide you in teh direction of mental and spiritual purity. It should be worn as close to the throat as possible or at least above the diaphragm so that the energy of the wearer is drawn upward.

Moonstone:

Feldspar (contains aluminum). Translucent with white, pink, yellow, soft sheen. Honors the Goddess in all women, Dieting, Gardening, Psychic Awareness, Meditation. Soothes stress, anxiety, women's hormones/menstrual imbalance, lymph. Enhances intuitive sensitivity via feelings and less overwhelmed by personal feelings. Greater flexibility and flow with life. Connects 2nd and 6th Chakra and Pineal for emotional balance, gracefulness. Helps all be more comfortable with our gentler feminine/yin receiving side. Especially for water signs. Used for protection against the perils of travel. Translucent, milky gemstones usually pale blue or green that are cut from Albite. Found in India and Australia. Known to be of ancient spiritual significance in their connection to the moon and the intuitive aspect of one's nature. Help cool, soothe, and calm over- reactions to emotional and personal situations. Makes one conscious of the fact that all things are part of a cycle of constant change. They open us up to the feminine and are associated with sensitivity, intuition, and clairvoyance. Beneficial for those involved in agriculture. Moonstone's effect upon the menstrual cycle is powerful. At the time of the full moon or menstruation, women should be aware of their sensitive emotional nature and remove these stones. May help all parts of the lower torso, which include digestive, cleansing and reproductive organs.

Seasonal Simmers

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Simmers are a special mixture of herbs and spices, which are combined into a blend or potion, created to bring the power of aromatherapy and intention into your life. They are also designed to capture the attention of those around you.

Based on folk remedies, grandma's recipes and the ingredients provided by nature, these simmers are recipes used to make your kitchen smell delightful. They can be used along with a "special intention" and later, can even be enjoyed as tea!

Christmas Blend

Used for: scenting the kitchen/any room with aromatherapy for the holidays, inviting Winter, warming a chill, tonifying the kidneys.

-Blend 4-8 cups of water with:
-3 cinnamon sticks
-8-10 cloves
-For a warmer, spicier concoction, add 4-6 slices of raw ginger or a tsp. of dried ginger.
Slowly simmer on the stove. Allow the smell to permeate the room.

Autumn Elegance

Used for: scenting the kitchen/any room with aromatherapy, inviting Fall, honoring Halloween, as a love potion.

-Blend 2-4 cups of apple cider or apple juice with:
-1 apple cut into small pieces
-1 pinch of nutmeg
-1 cinnamon stick

Slowly simmer on the stove. Allow the smell to permeate the room.

Spring Swing

Used for: scenting the kitchen/any room with aromatherapy, initiating Spring, invoking a Spring affair, a great detoxing tea.

-Blend 4-8 cups of water with:
-4-8 drops of Stevia
-4-6 tsp. of two of the following herbs: Rosehips, Red Clover, Ginger, Nettle, Alfalfa, Dandelion, Goldenseal Leaf, Echinacea, Pan D'Arco, Burdock

Slowly simmer on the stove. Allow the smell to permeate the room.

Summer Simmer

Used for: scenting the kitchen/any room with aromatherapy, inviting Summer, honoring the Solstice, invoking Summer love, as a cooling iced tea.

-Blend 2-4 quartz of water with:
-1 lemon, sliced
-1 lime, sliced
-sprig of mint
-1 tsp. vanilla
-4-6 tsp. of two of the following herbs: Jasmine flower, Chamomile flower, Chrysanthemum flower, Rose petals.

Slowly simmer on the stove. Allow the smell to permeate the room. Cool and refrigerate for iced tea.

Special Notes:

With each simmer you can:
-take advantage of their aromatic properties.
-say a positive affirmation, invoking words, a special prayer or give thanks.
-use them at the start of each season to give honor to yourself and your intentions for that season.
-as it cools, share, drink, these simmers as a tea.
-the health properties of these ingredients are appropriate for each season, relate to the internal organs and are associated by taste, temperature and color.

Seizures And How To Help

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

A seizure is a temporary abnormal electrical activity that occurs in a group of brain cells. Often, a recurring, unprovoked seizure is called epilepsy, but some seizures may occur in people who do not have epilepsy. A seizure can manifest as a temporary alteration in mental state, tonic (contraction of short muscle groups), clonic (involuntary contractions due to sudden stretching of larger muscle groups), movements, convulsions, and various other psychic symptoms.

Emergency medicine (action) for a seizure depends on the type of seizure. General seizures may cause the person to fall, which may result in an injury.

A tonic-clonic seizure results in violent movements that cannot and should not be suppressed. The person should never be restrained, or should there be any attempt to put something in the mouth.

Potentially sharp or dangerous objects should also be moved from the area, so that the individual is not hurt.

After the seizure if the person is not fully conscious and alert, they should be placed in the recovery position. The recovery position or semi-prone position is a first aid technique recommended for assisting people who are unconscious, or nearly so, but are still breathing. (See: Recovery Position, below)

It is not always necessary to call an ambulance if the person is known to have epilepsy or if the seizure is shorter than five minutes and is typical for them, if it is not immediately followed by another seizure, and if the person is uninjured. (When in doubt, always call 911).

A seizure longer than five minutes is a medical emergency.

A sudden fall can lead to broken bones and other injuries. ______________________________________________________

Recovery Position

Before using the Recovery Position, perform the preliminary first aid steps. The initial assessment should be done quickly, in a minute or less.

First assess whether the scene is safe for the rescuer. If not, leave. Assess whether the victim is Alert, Breathing and has Circulation (ABCs). If the victim is alert and an adult, obtain consent before performing first aid. For children, attempt to obtain consent from a parent, guardian, or other responsible caregiver. If the victim is not alert, and is not breathing, check for a pulse. If there is no pulse, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. If there is circulation, perform Rescue breathing.

Next, call 911

Rescue Breathing can include:

Mouth to mouth - This involves the rescuer making a seal between their mouth and the patient's mouth and 'blowing', in order to pass air in to the patient's body

Mouth to nose - In some instances, the rescuer may need or wish to form a seal with the patient's nose. Typical reasons for this include maxillofacial injuries, performing the procedure in water or the remains of vomit in the mouth

Mouth to mouth and nose - Used on infants (usually up to around 1 year old), as this forms the most effective seal

Mouth to mask – Most organizations recommend the use of some sort of barrier between rescuer and patient to reduce cross infection risk. One popular type is the 'pocket mask'. This may be able to provide higher tidal volumes than a Bag Valve Mask

-If no spinal or neck injury is indicated

The correct position is called the "lateral recovery position. Start with the victim lying on the back and with the legs straight out. Kneel on one side of the victim, facing the victim. Move the arm closest to you so it is perpendicular to the body, with the elbow flexed (perpendicular). Move the farthest arm across the body so that the hand is resting across the torso.

Bend the leg farthest from you so the knee is elevated. Reach inside the knee to pull the thigh toward you. Use the other arm to pull the shoulder that is farthest from you. Roll the body toward you. Leave the upper leg in a flexed position to stabilize the body.

-If spinal or neck injuries are possible

When the injury is apparently the result of an accidental fall, collision or other trauma, the risk of spinal or neck injuries should be assumed. Movement of spinal-injured victims should be minimized. Such victims should only be moved to a recovery position when it is necessary to drain vomit from the airway.

In such case, the correct position is called the "HAINES modified recovery position." HAINES is an acronym of High Arm IN Endangered Spine. In this modification, one of the patient's arms is raised above the head (in full abduction) to support the head and neck

First Responder Notes

If an individual has suffered a fall or injuries that suggest damage to the spine, your priority is to keep the airway open. If breathing, then leave them in the position you found them.

If breathing has stopped, regardless of possible injury to the person, perform your standard checks:

DR & ABC (Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation).

Then move them into the recovery position to open the airway. If they do not start breathing, begin CPR. If they begin to breathe, keep them in that position.

First Responder Priorities.

1 Breathing, everything else comes second.

2 Get Help, you are the stop gap that keeps them alive until they get to the Hospital. ___________________________________________________

Stress/Depression and the Holidays

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Although the holidays are supposed to be a time full of joy, good cheer and optimistic hopes for a new year, many people experience seasonal "blues." What's important to know is that there are steps you can take to help beat the blues this holiday season.

The "holiday blues" can be caused by many factors: increased stress and fatigue, unrealistic expectations, over-commercialization and the inability to be with one's family. The increased demands of shopping, parties, family reunions and house guests also contribute to these feelings of tension. Even people who do not become depressed can develop other stress reactions during the holidays, such as headaches, excessive drinking, overeating and difficulty sleeping.

Although many people become depressed during the holiday season, even more respond to the excessive stress and anxiety once the holidays have passed. This post-holiday letdown can be the result of emotional disappointments experienced during the preceding months, as well as the physical reactions caused by excess fatigue and stress.

There are several ways to identify potential sources of holiday depression that can help you head off the blues:

*Keep expectations for the holiday season manageable by not trying to make the holiday "the best ever."
*Set realistic goals for yourself.
*Pace yourself.
*Organize your time. Make a list and prioritize the most important activities.
*Be realistic about what you can and cannot do.
*Remember that the holiday season does not automatically banish reasons for feeling sad or lonely. There is room for these feelings to be present, even if you choose not to express them.
*Let go of the past. Don't be disappointed if your holidays are not like they used to be. Life brings changes. Each holiday season is different and can be enjoyed in its own way. Don't set yourself up for sadness by thinking everything has to be just like the "good old days." Look toward the future.
*Do something for someone else. It is an old remedy, but it can help. Try volunteering some time to help others.
*Enjoy holiday activities that are free, such as driving around to look at holiday decorations. Go window shopping without buying anything.
*Don't drink too much. Excessive drinking will only make you more depressed.
*Don't be afraid to try something new. Celebrate the holidays in a way you have not done before.
*Spend time with people who are supportive and who care about you.
*Reach out to make new friends if you are alone during special times.
*Contact someone with whom you have lost touch.
*Find time for yourself. Don't spend all of your time providing activities for your family and friends.

The Healing Power of the Sea

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Every summer I take my long needed vacation to the sea. This powerful source of nature yields some of the most essential healing tools and additional benefits that are hard to compare with anything else. We already know the necessary and soothing abilities water offers.

The mysterious and amazing healing power of water has been utilized for centuries. Water cleanses, refreshes and restores all life. We are always drawn to water. Be it a soothing fountain, majestic waterfall or the churning sea. Water is a carrier. It flows. It moves along the line of least resistance to find its way to the ocean where comes and goes in the ebb and flow of tides and waves. The appeal is inexplicable! We crave water, maybe because our bodies are made up of a large percent of it. Maybe beacuse we instinctively know how it can heal us.

Here are some of the best tools and tips the sea can offer:

1. Sun - is the best source of Vitamin D. More than 15-20 minutes can be harmful when you are not protected. The sun is the source of all life and it sure feels good on our face, especially after a long, cold winter. Prevention and precautions are the most important methods when you go out in the sun. Applying sunscreen (SPF 15, at least), wear UV-protective sunglasses, and limiting your time in the sun will help avoid this problem. Stay out of the sun when it's high in the sky; this is when the UV rays are more intense (from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Choose clothing that covers your skin - hats, lightweight, long-sleeved shirts. Pure aloe vera rubbed into the skin can help to heal. Take antioxidants to help block the chemical reactions that can trigger cancer's uncontrolled cell growth.

2. Sand - is a natural exfoliator. These finely ground seashells become an amazing tool for cleansing your skin. Wet your skin in the sea and rub it gently all over your skin. Use some in a bowl to create a Zen garden or sea display.

3. Salt Water - the healing abilities of salt water are profound and well documented. Salt water is an astringent and speeds wound healing. A cup or handful of water in your hand or neti pot is a wonderful cleansing therapy. Slowly inhale the salt water into your nose to cleanse your sinus and open up the air passages. Floating in sea water is an extreme release of tension and stress of the day. Allow yourself to float weightlessly in the water. You deserve it.

4. Sponge - a natural cleanser and exfoliator, sponge can be dried in the sun and placed in your decorative bowl or on the bathtub. Rewet your sponge and use it in the bath or shower.

5. Coral - comes in many forms. When this beautiful "art of the sea" washes up on the beach and bleached by the sun, it's beauty can be awe inspiring. Coral is rich in calcium. This "stone" can be used as pumice to exfoliate dead skin cells, bring blood and circulation back to the feet when used as a massage stone and can make a wonderful decorative piece.

6. Sea Air - deep breathing of ocean air helps us to relax and let go. The faint smell of salt in the air can take us to a place of pure joy. Sea air has a certain aliveness found no where else. This deep breathing can help release tension and the problems associated with it.

7. Exercise - yoga, body toning, running on the beach, breath exercises are all great ways to stay fit and take advantage of all the outdoor activities offered us in the summer. Make them enjoyable to you. In the summer months it is a good idea to exercise early in the morning or late afternoon. Make sure you drink plenty of water before, during and after activities to ensure hydration.

8. Seaweed - rich in iodine, and other minierals, seaweed and other sea vegetables are fat-free, low calorie and one of the richest sources of minerals in the vegetable kingdom since they have access to the abundance of minerals in the sea. One of seaweed's most beneficial health properties is its ability to remove radioactive strontium as well as heavy metals from the body. Seaweed is generally categorized into brown and red algae. Seaweed can also be ground into a wonderful exfoliant and used in mineral and mud treatments.

9. Seashells - these magnificent works of Universal creation are wonders to behold. Finding and searching them out is a great past time that can last for hours, take us away from ourselves and gives us a care free adventure that is rewarding on many levels. Your favorites can be taken home and cleansed. They can make beautiful decorative pieces. Display them in a bowl. Place them in any room in the house, especially rooms with water. Seashells are natural vessels that can be used for cleansing and make a great carrier for sage or incense. They can be placed on your personal alter as a reminder of good times or as a tribute to nature and all her powers.

10. Stress relief - the best combination for stress is combining the above element of light, air and surf to create the best prescription for good health and relaxation. Take advantage of any of the above suggestions. They will melt away stress and bring you back to nature. Leave your laptop and cell phone behind (for once, please!)

References

1. Sundance Natural Foods, Inc. "Neptune's Garden - Vegetables of the Sea".

2. Shirley's Wellness Cafe's "Water the Great Healer".

Self Destructive Behavior and How to Cope

Special thanks to the Medicor Labs Corp.

In the 1930s, the psychiatrist Karl A Menninger, author of Man Against Himself, called the process of gradual self-destruction chronic suicide, in contrast to acute suicide. The second kind is characterized by direct and quickly lethal acts of self-destruction. Another, more recently coined term for chronic suicide is indirect self-destructive behavior. Both terms have the same meaning and will be used interchangeably in the present discussion.

The psychology of both acute and chronic suicide is similar, but not identical. One factor that distinguishes the two is that in acute suicide, there is no denial of the wish for death. In chronic suicide, there is denial of such a wish. It is a repressed wish. On the surface, the individual seeks pleasure, an immediate gratification, a sense of control or some other psychological payoff. Death or disability are recognized, naturally, as unfortunate consequences of one's actions, but that is usually as far as insight penetrates. The understanding of one's own motives is, consequently, shallow.

Some of the signs and symptoms frequently associated with self- destructive behavior are listed below. Not all of these will necessarily be evident in a particular case.

*Substance abuse
*Food abuse
*Self-absorption
*A need for self-abasement
*Asceticism
*Masochism
*Accident proneness
*Seeking unnecessary surgery
*Refusal to comply with a physician's instructions
*Denial of reality

The above items merit comment. Substance abuse includes the abusive act of alcohol and drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines. It is usually clear to the individual that he or she is inflicting long- term damage on the body.

It is quite common among those who display indirect self-destructive behavior to refuse to comply with a physician's instructions.

Self Destructiveness - Causes and Explanations

In classic psychoanalytic theory, there are two master principles that determine the course of all human lives. These are Eros and Thanatos, the life instincts and the death instinct. Note there is more than one life instinct; examples include hunger, thirst and sex. There is only one death instinct. The energy of the life instincts is called libido and energy of the death instinct is called destrudo.

According to Freud, when a person is relatively normal and well adjusted, these two energies are in a healthy balance. In youth, Eros is dominant. In old age, Thanatos is dominant and eventually succeeds in bringing about the biological death of the individual. In persons with self-destructive tendencies, Eros and Thanatos are out of balance, and Thanatos is in the dominant position. This point of view was articulated and formalized in Menninger's Man Against Himself. The image of Thanatos, the Greek god of death, riding in the driver's seat of one's life is a terrifying one. It is a useful image because it places the individual on alert and helps him or her to more deeply appreciate that indirect self-destructive behavior can be a compelling theme in one's general style of life. The question arises: What throws Eros and Thanatos into a state of imbalance? A number of causal factors can be important, and they can interact with each other, magnifying their independent effects.

An important factor is a self-hate arising out of guilt. In the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Ironweed by William Kennedy, the protagonist has a strong need to abuse and punish himself for an error he committed as a young husband. He inadvertently dropped his infant son on the floor, and the child died of the consequent injury. The central character never forgives himself and spends years as an alcoholic who sleeps in alleys. Another example is Lauren T., who has had two abortions. She was raised as a Roman Catholic. She feels very much like a murderer and believes that she deserves punishment. She allows her sadistic lover to beat and slap her. It is one of the few ways in which she feels she can atone for her perceived crimes.

There are times when self-destructiveness can be a way to punish someone else. When Nancy G. married her prominent-attorney husband, she was slim and pretty, the winner two years before of a beauty pageant. Her husband was her senior by 20 years. It quickly became evident to Nancy that he had 'purchased' a sex object. He acted as if he owned her, and he was dictatorial. Also, he was sexually overbearing, caring little or nothing for Nancy's gratification. Nancy is both a passive and a traditional woman. She felt locked into the marriage. Her way of punishing her husband was to become obese. She has destroyed the body and the beauty that he thought he owned. Her self-destructiveness is really an attempt to both damage her husband's ego and to deny him sexual pleasure.

A complicating factor in self-destructiveness is the 'too much, too soon' phenomenon. When wealth, success, or fame is attained too early in life, it throws the recipient into a psychological tailspin. A vivid description of this pattern is presented in such autobiographical works as Too Much, Too Soon by Diana Barrymore and My Wicked, Wicked Ways by Errol Flynn.

The conviction that life is meaningless and that there is no point in living can be an underlying theme in some instances of self- destructiveness. In connection with this point, persons who are attacking themselves often entertain the fantasy of destruction and rebirth. It is an item of folklore that something must be torn down before rebuilding can take place. One expression of this idea is the image of the phoenix, a legendary Arabian bird, rising from its own ashes. Loosely associated with the phoenix myth is the idea that biological death will bring a second life, or a second chance at a higher spiritual level.

Asceticism can be explained in part by returning to the factor of self-hate arising out of guilt. The imposition of harsh conditions on one's life may be for some persons a way of 'cleansing' the soul, a means of purifying the self. It is another way of paying for real or imagined 'crimes'.

Finally, it should be noted that self-destructiveness can be a response to feeling helpless in the face of chronic illness such as diabetes, heart disease, or Buerger's disease. Paradoxically, persons who feel overwhelmed by health problems may regain a sense of power and a modicum of control over their own lives by resisting, instead of cooperating with, a physician's instructions. It is a self- defeating declaration of autonomy.

Self Destructiveness - Learning to Cope

You may find value in the practical coping strategies below.

Reinforce the life forces. Assume for the moment that Eros and Thanatos, the life instincts and death instinct, are in a state of imbalance. Add whatever psychological weight you can to the side of the scale of life occupied by Eros. Make a list in writing of reasons why life is worth living. Include your blessings and your talents. Name the things that bring you pleasure in life. Start the list, carry it with you and add to it as ideas occur to you. You may start out by thinking that there is little or nothing you can list, but you may find, to your surprise, that the list will grow fairly long.

Recognize the ambivalent nature of your behavior. It is not true that you simply want to hasten your death, that you do not believe that life itself is worth living. If this were so, you would find a way to simply kill yourself quickly and effectively. The fact that you engage in indirect self-destructive behavior shows in itself that you are of two minds. Within this very fact resides hope. You are not a complete enemy of yourself. Somewhere within your personality you are also a friend to yourself. Learn to work with, not against this friend.

Intensify your reality orientation. The very fact that you are recognizing within yourself some of the symptoms of self-destructive behavior suggests that your denial of reality is far from complete. Build on this, Say to yourself, "I am going to face the long-term consequences of my behavior." Ask yourself, "What will become of me if I persist in my present pattern?" Tell yourself, "I am a creature of flesh and bone like all human beings. I need love, not abuse - certainly not abuse at my own hands."

Find ways to de-center. De-centering is a technique that reduces high levels of self-absorption. This is particularly true in the case of persons who suffer from the 'too much, too soon' phenomenon. They often display narcissism. In decentering, one takes active steps to engage oneself in helping others. There are many ways to do this. Volunteer work in hospitals or the tutoring of children with learning disabilities provides two examples.

Reevaluate your guilt feelings. It is possible that your guilt feelings are excessive, that your self-hate is an overreaction. This is frequently the case in persons who have had a very traditional upbringing and who have, in Freudian terms, a punitive superego, i.e., the moral agent of the personality. Ask yourself, "Am I in fact as guilty as I feel, or am I the victim of an overly moralistic attitude that I acquired in childhood from authoritarian parents?" Your own answer to this question may come as something of a surprise, and possibly will relieve you of some of your burden of guilt.

Search for the meaning in life. Perhaps you are in a state of despair and demoralization because you see no real point or purpose in living. Start searching for meaning by reading and reflection. The search itself will help restore a degree of sense and purpose to existence.

Look for long-term gratifications. Instead of short-term gratifications that can be found in alcohol, other drugs, food, and masochistic behavior. Lift your eyes to a more distant horizon. Look down the road of your life. First, imagine as vividly as you can your future if you continue on the present course. Then imagine your future and its gratifications if you give up dubious 'pleasures' associated with self-destructive behavior. Return frequently to the images associated with delay of gratification.

Ask yourself, "Who am I really punishing?" It is possible that your self-destructive behavior is a way of punishing someone else. If you answer the suggested question honestly, you are likely to discover that you are punishing yourself much more than you are punishing the other person. If the cost of your maladaptive behavior is clearly seen as outweighing its benefits, you might find that you are able to give it up. Say to yourself, "I want to stop being a victim of myself."

Declare your autonomy in positive ways. Refusing to follow a physician's instructions when you have a chronic illness is a way of declaring your autonomy. But it is a negative way. It is the mode of the toddler. The 'terrible twos' is characterized by the child frequently saying, "No." Refusal to obey instructions is a way of saying, crudely, "I am my own person." Reject childish ways. Remind yourself that you are not two years old, but an adult. Find ways to be your own person by building, by doing creative things, by acting in constructive ways.

The Self-Esteem Series: The "Honor Myself" Check List

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Our Goal this week will be to promote self-worth and promote body awareness. Identity work to raise consciousness. Build self- confidence. Improve our ego, self-esteem, emotional balance and strengthen our positive personality traits. We will allow ourselves to see all the beauty our eyes touch.

Self-esteem issues are different in different people. Although you may feel great about yourself in one area of your life, you may be extremely down on yourself in another. Welcome to the world. We can all seek to improve ourselves. It is time you became committed to truly loving and appreciating yourself and who you are.

1. Walk with your head up - do not look down. Keep your eyes even with the horizon. Tell everyone who you are with your eyes.

Affirmation: I keep my head up high. I choose to be a very loving, humble, secure me.

2. Stay positive, patient and keep your temper in check - Breath. Think of positive thoughts and seek the sunny side of every situation. Avoid getting extremely angry and flying off the handle.

Affirmation: I am calm, cool, collected. Nothing, absolutely nothing bothers me.

3. Stop taking things personally - guess what, it is not all about you. Everyone is not against you and they are not ganging up on you either.

Affirmation: It is not about me. I rise above all that is in my way. I soar free and independent of that, which is around me.

4. Stop playing it safe - It is time to be a risk taker. The worse thing that could happen is that you fall on your face. So what. And your point is? If you do not go out on a limb sometimes, you will continually be ruled by your fear.

Affirmation: I honor all that I am. I deserve the best. I am the best.

5. No more hiding - Your lack of belief in yourself may want to keep you hidden away behind closed doors and from reality. Get out there. Meet and greet. You never know who you will meet. Make it a challenge. You just might meet your next employer, love of your life or bridge partner.

Affirmation: I am powerful and brave. I know we are all in the same situations. We share the same consciousness. I will be the better person and take my place in the world.

6. Change your vocabulary - NOW. Words and phrases like: “I can’t", It figures”, "Just my luck", “I’m only human”, “I should have", “Life sucks" or "It's impossible"... should never cross your lips...again.

Affirmation: I can, I'm so lucky, I'm so fortunate, I will, I'm deserving, It's possible, I love my life.

7. Limit the apologizing and drop the guilty - Enough already. You have nothing to be quilty of. Nothing. Continuous apologizing not only is annoying to hear, it shows that you are not grounded and can not find your comfort in your own skin.

Affirmation: I am guilt free. I have nothing to be quilty about. No more excuses or apologies.

8. Make direct eye contact - make it every time with someone... and keep it. Looking down or looking away only shows how insecure you are. You have nothing to be insecure about and everything to be sure of.

Affirmation: There is nothing more beautiful, than a confident person.

9. Accept a compliment - with praise and graciousness. They are not often given out. Take them with pride and honor. Be happy that someone has found there own security enough to give one to you. Show them how secure you are, by thanking them.

Affirmation: I appreciate a compliment. I deserve a compliment. I am grateful.

10. Less taking and more giving - shows you are confident that what you have to give is worth something. The more we take, the more we think we deserve, the more we feed into our poor sense of self.

Affirmation: I am happy to give my time, my love and my charity to all who need it.

The Self-Esteem Series: Honoring Your Body

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Bringing your awareness to your body is an amazing feeling! One of the most beautiful ways to bring honor to anything is to touch it. With the energy transfer between two beings, the process can be a great evolution. When honoring the self, it is even more awakening. What better way to do this, than with a bar of soap and a shower.

If you usually wash with a washcloth or sponge, forego these tools and use your hands and a bar of soap. Start at the face and lather your skin. Massage it with the tips of your fingers. Feel the structure of your bones. Brush a finger over your lips and massage the sides of your nose.

Keep all thoughts and affirmations positive. This is a time to admire everything you have! Not to be our critical, judgemental selves!

HONOR.

Massage your ears. Pay attention to each area. Close your eyes if you want to and feel how the ears can stimulate every part of the body.

Massage your neck and throat. Use the lather to glide over your chest and down your arms. Make small circle with the suds. Feel the texture of your skin. Notice how your hands glide over the abdomen and thighs.

How often do we take a shower and wash up and not even pay attention to what we are doing? Pay special attention to yourself today! Do not let your mind wander. Keep your attention on admiring your body and how it pertains to you. Defines you. Massage each leg. Gently circle each knee and work down to your beautiful feet. Nuture each foot as you soap each toe, the tops of your feet, then firmly press on the bottoms of the foot and instep.

This is also a wonderful time for women to do your self breast exam and for men to do a self testicular exam. What better way to be honoring your body and be a conscious self aware adult.

Breast Exam

Examining your breasts is an important way to find breast cancer early, when it's most likely to be cured. This is a critical step you can and should take for yourself. For many, the experience is frustrating. You may feel things, but not know what they mean. However, the more you examine your breasts, the more you will learn about them and the easier it will become for you to tell if something unusual has occurred. A breast exam is an essential part of taking care of yourself and reducing your risk of breast cancer.

Try to get in the habit of doing a breast examination once a month to familiarize yourself with how your breasts normally look and feel. Examine yourself several days after your period ends, when your breasts are least likely to be swollen and tender. If you are no longer having periods, choose a day that's easy to remember, such as the first or last day of the month.

Don't panic if you think you feel a lump. Most women have some lumps or lumpy areas in their breasts all the time. Eight out of ten breast lumps that are removed are benign, non-cancerous.

Testicular Exam

Self exams of the testicles are also an effective way of getting to know this area of your body and detecting testicular cancer at an early and very curable stage. While it can strike at any age, testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer for men aged 15 to 34. Checking yourself out every month is important as any significant change in the size, shape, or weight of your testicles could be a sign that you should see a physician.

If you find a lump on your testicle, see a doctor, preferably a urologist, right away. The abnormality may not be cancer, it may just be an infection. Waiting and hoping will not fix anything. Please note that free floating lumps in the scrotum that are not attached in any way to a testicle are not testicular cancer.

Honoring your body is one of the most grateful ways to love and pay attention to yourself. Always do this with positive thought and life affirming words. No matter what shape you are in, honor yourself for who you are. This will actually promote change, self awareness and the ability to know who you are.

The Self-Esteem Series: The Learning Process

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Self-esteem is a confidence in yourself and your capabilities. Self- esteem is important because if allows you to enjoy a happier, more joy-filled life. Most importantly, self-esteem helps you feel connected with the "true spirit" within yourself. This enables you to take responsibility for your own happiness. You MUST make positive thinking a habit, and this allows you to build self-esteem!

Now answer these questions. Rate each answer on a scale of 1-3 one, if you feel this way sometimes, but infrequently; two , if you usually feel this way; or three, if you always feel this way

1...I appreciate all the things I can do.
2...I understand the importance of being my own best friend.
3...I appreciate my own uniqueness.
4...I pay attention to my feelings.
5...I am comfortable expressing my feelings to others.
6...I am sensitive and concerned for the feelings of others.
7...I let go of unhappy thoughts.
8...I understand that mistakes are only "misses."
9...I take responsibility for my actions.
10..I allow myself to be different from others.

If you have a perfect score of 30, you are in great shape!
20-30 means you probably like yourself most of the time.
20-10 means you need to start lifting some "positive mental weights," and if you scored below 10, you need 10 self affirmations to let you know you are alright and you are ready for improvement.

Whether you already think positively or need to start practicing some positive mental habits, you can have great fun exploring the issues of self-esteem.

Self-esteem and The Learning Process

Self-esteem is closely linked to the learning process. Learning something successfully makes you feel good about yourself and creates positive attitudes. A life-student with self-esteem is an active rather than passive learner and is eager to try new things without fear of failure.

A life-student afraid to risk failure inevitably stops learning. You won't develop self-esteem overnight because it's a building process, but each small step to improved confidence will ultimately, impact all your future choices.

Learn to praise yourself at each step you take towards a goal and encourage your persistence to keep trying! You know that you have self-esteem when your "can do" attitude reflects an understanding that a mistake is just a "miss," and that's how you learn!

Using All Your Senses

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Use All Your Senses: Visual Esthetics

The power of our senses can be harnessed as an unbelievable tool that you can use to your life advantage! By eating well, living in a healthy manner that works for YOU and working in a clutter free environment are essential for living well. Diffusing essential oils for stress stimulates our use of our acute sense of smell as does the background sounds that we hear, help promote the "flow" of our work and are simple little tricks that can make us better achievers in life. The ability to use our visual skills in learning life's lessons can be a great advantage, as well as using our tactile skills to become better human beings.

Visual Esthetics

Seeing is a special sense. Rhodopsin in the rods is activated by a photon of light > light activates a G protein call "Transducin" > Transducin activates phosphodiesterase > phosphodiesterase hydrolizes many molecules of cyclic GMP > hyrdrolization of cyclic GMP causes gates in the cell to close cutting off the flow of sodium ion causing an action potential > the action potential travels through many layers of retina through the optic nerve > to the cerebral cortex where it is interpreted as vision.

Feng Shui (pronounced Fung Shway) is the ancient Chinese art of placement to enhance the flow of "vital life energy" known as Qi. Practitioners believe that rooms, buildings and all environments can be arranged and decorated in a way that maximizes the flow of Qi and, resulting in improvements to health and happiness of those who live in that environment.

Feng Shui is the ancient Chinese practice of arranging a physical environment to maximize personal harmony and success. Feng Shui is an expression of the oneness and interconnectedness of all things on all levels and all dimensions. This is a "key concept" in understanding how our essence relates to everything else around us, including our environment. As we begin to sense this oneness we then find that it is possible to gain insight from looking at our environment on a broader scale. It is often said that "Feng Shui teaches us what we already know".

Visual Esthetics is the organization our brain keeps. Our eyes are attracted to visual esthetics and beauty. In Feng Shui, the bottom left side of a room, as determined if you are standing at the room's entrance looking in, is known as the knowledge area. Enhancing the positive Qi energy in this area contributes to learned wisdom, self-cultivation and spiritual development which is the potential to grow from within. If you're excited about what Feng Shui might be able to do in your life, here's an outline for you:

* Thoroughly clean and de-clutter every part of your environment.
-Decluttering is important maybe even potent enough to overcome your resistance.

* Lacking motivation?
- Display symbols of what you want to achieve in life.
- Keep shiny metal objects and fresh flowers on your desk.
- Keep your desk tidy.

*Not assertive enough?
- Get rid of clutter; keep plenty of empty space around you.
- Keep your chair as high as is comfortable or use a stool.

*Learning materials
- Put your books, computer manuals, magazines, or newspapers in your knowledge area.
-Before wisdom comes knowledge, so place those things you want to become an expert at in this area.

Use All Your Senses: Sense of Smell

Once the Olfactory receptors identify an aroma > nerve cells relay this information directly to the Limbic system of the brain. > Here, aromas can trigger memories and influence behavior. > Additionally, the Limbic system works in conjunction with the pituitary gland and the > Hypothalamus region of the brain to regulate the hormonal activities > thus triggering the production of hormones that govern appetite, body temperature, insulin production, overall metabolism, stress levels , sex drive , and conscious thought and reactions. > The Limbic system also influences immunity.

Aromatherapy is the practice of using naturally distilled essences of plants to promote the health and well-being of your body, mind, and emotions. These essence, called essential oils, can restore balance and harmony to your body and to your life. Essential oils of plant, fruit, and flower essences are created to center and enhance the body and mind in order to help us in preventative measures, as well as, an effective cure for many illnesses. Scents can induce an amazing power as they influence our moods. Our sense of smell is the most direct path to our emotions. This is the principle behind the ancient art of aromatherapy.

Once you understand the purpose of why essential oils exist, you will want them in your life forever. They represent life itself, the source of all healing. My wish is that you will share them with a friend, and let them experience some of your oils.

Essential Oils work on several different levels. They affect most people through the sense of smell. The sense of smell is the most complexed and the sensitive of the five senses.

-Essential oils can have a positive affect on all these functions.

-Essential oils work through the skin as well. They can stimulate surface skin cells , calm inflamed or irritated skin, release muscle spasms, soothe sore muscles and relieve muscle tension.

-Essential oils are used in a variety of ways.
* You can inhale them directly from the bottle.
* You can use them for skin care, hair care, and body care, as well as, for many beauty purposes.
* Personal hygiene, aromatherapy baths, foot baths.
* Giving and receiving aromatherapy massages.
* Inhaling aromatherapy oil blends to relieve congestion, clear your head and make breathing easier.
* You can also make wonderful fragrances with essential oils.
* Aromatherapy can prevent or ease an assortment of ailments.
Essential oils boost the immune system.
* You can treat aches, pains, injuries, with essential oils.
* Aromatherapy can help reduce stress, lift depression, restore emotional well-being.
* You can disperse essential oils through the air in your home or office to increase productivity or alter moods.

Use All Your Senses: Sound Psychology

Hearing is a special sense. Sound waves hit the tympanic membrane > the tympanic membrane vibrates and moves the ossicles of the ear (the incus, malleus and stapes) > which transmits the sound to the basilar membrane > this vibration causes the stereocilia hairs to move > causing an action potential which travels to the cerebral cortex > which translates into what we hear.

Music is a magical medium and a very powerful tool. Music can delight all the senses and inspire every fiber of our being. Music has the power to soothe and relax, bring us comfort and embracing joy! Music subtly bypasses the intellectual stimulus in the brain and moves directly to our subconscious. There is music for every mood and for every occasion.

Music Therapy is incorporated in a number of areas of medicine. Some of these include labor and delivery, oncology, pain management, physical rehabilitation, and yes, good study habits. Music Therapy has been shown to have influences on the immune system, blood pressure, heart and respiratory rates, and concentration.

Absolute silence is also a form of sound therapy and can be very effective in helping someone to learn how to focus and pay attention to details of what they are working on. This type of "silence therapy" often works best for those who are often distracted by the slightest noise or have attention deficeit issues. Remember, everyone is different and what may work for you, may not work for your study partner. Be aware as to what can work for both of you if you study together.

Take the opportunity to listen to some music right now!

Use All Your Senses: Our Sense of Taste

Is your idea of breakfast two donuts and a cup of coffee? Or would you rather opt for no breakfast at all? And how many times have you skipped lunch in order to have one last work call, report or conference.

Such is life for many of those whose nutritional health seems to be neglected due to the demands of school and work.But who has the time to concern themselves with their eating habits? We barely have time to get eight hours of sleep, much less to eat an occasional well-balanced meal. But not taking the time to at least learn about your own nutritional health can have dangerous consequences in the years to come.You know that saying: "You are what you eat?" Well, it's true, because everything you eat now can and will affect the quality and length of your life. Now is the time to take care of yourself; don't wait 20 years from now until after you've suffered your first heart attack and/or stroke.

According to the American Heart Association, reducing the "controllable" risk factors - those factors you can change now - may prevent heart disease and stroke in the future. This, of course, would include changing your eating habits to fit a healthier lifestyle. But this is not to imply that you should go on a diet; it is merely a suggestion that making healthy choices and eating sensibly are some solutions to better health and wellness.You can eat well no matter what your lifestyle - athlete, student or working parent.

Eating well simply means eating a variety of foods that include sufficient amounts of protein, fruits, vegetables, complex carbohydrates, water and calcium. It is obvious that you can fulfill your daily requirements by eating almost anything - and without the guilt.It is also just as important to reduce your daily intake of fat. It is recommended that no more than 30 percent of your total daily calories comes from fat. This will help decrease your risk of developing high blood cholesterol, which often leads to heart disease. Lowering your fat intake will also help your body burn calories faster, and as a result, you will feel better and have more energy.

So, even the smallest of changes to your diet can make difference. And the smaller the change, the greater the likelihood that you will stick to it, because making a change that you can live with is the key to a healthier, happier you.

- The amount of time you sleep affects calorie needs. The more hours slept, the fewer calories needed. And women need more calories at certain times of the month than at others.

- Exercise should play a part in balancing your academic life. For workouts lasting less than 2 hours, water is excellent for fluid replacement. However, for longer workouts fluid replacement drinks may provide beneficial carbohydrates and electrolytes. Look for drinks containing 15-18 grams of carbohydrates per 8 ounces of fluid.

- When your muscles are working, they use fat and glycogen for the energy they need. Glycogen is a form of carbohydrate. Your body makes glycogen from the carbs you eat. Between 55-60% of your calories should come from carbohydrates. Carb-rich foods include breads, cereals, rice, pastas, dried beans and peas, corn, potatoes, fruits, and fruit juices.

Use All Your Senses: Tactile Learning

Our sense of touch can make all the difference in HOW we learn. Studies in neurophysiology have shown that physical experience creates especially strong neural pathways in the brain. When we participate in tactile/kinesthetic activity, the two hemispheres of the brain are simultaneously engaged. This type of learning experience helps assure that new information will be retained in long- term memory.

We all need to have our unique styles recognized as valid and acceptable. This may be most true of those students most likely to fail. Research increasingly suggests that the majority of students classified as "at risk" of academic failure fit the description of concrete/common sense learner style, and favor the tactile/kinesthetic mode. Kinesthetic activities make abstract concepts concrete. This is extremely important for students who have difficulty dealing with abstractions.

Moreover, whether the learner's preferred modality is auditory, visual, or tactile/kinesthetic, it is known that none of us always remembers what is seen or heard, and all of us remember best what we have had an opportunity to do. An old Chinese proverb expresses this: "I hear and I forget; I see and I remember; I do and I understand." Tactile and kinesthetic engagement enhances anyone's learning!

The tactile system is essentially touch. It is activated through receptors in the skin. Our tactile sense gives us information about size, shape, texture, and temperature. In the study of science, a well-developed tactile sense is essential. It is a sense that could be better utilized in the other disciplines as well. The kinesthetic system is activated through movement, with its receptors located in the tendons and muscles. It is the kinesthetic system that recognizes, for example, when a dance sequence you are practicing has not been properly executed.

Among the general strategies by which these senses can be engaged in the learning process are role play, dramatization, cooperative games, simulations, creative movement and dance, multi-sensory activities, manipulative and hands-on projects. (For examples, charades might be played as part of a vocabulary-building lesson; an historical event might be role played or dramatized; learning of new information might be demonstrated by creating a mural, diagram, model, diorama, or decorated time line; we might be assigned to sort and arrange in proper sequence index cards with information and dates related to the topic being studied.)

This is the strength of touch and tactile learning.

Use All Your Senses: Intuition

Intuition, our 6th sense? Perhaps. We all have hunches, gut feelings, or intuitive insight. The feeling one gets when first hearing about something or someone, or the first impression when we meet someone new...these are all simply our intuition. Intuition is the basis of many of the Intuitive Art forms we know today. Psychics, Channeling, Astrology, Tarot, Aura Reading and other Intuitive Arts have regained acceptance in the mainstream as another form of "perceptive counseling".

Metaphysics has been called everything from New Age Psychology to the Taoism of Life! Metaphysics has always taught us that what we think about most strongly, often times becomes apart of our subconscious. Here, it becomes and anchor or reflex that we end up manifesting in our lives through conscious action! Science has found that the human mind is a storage compartment of accumulated ideas, concepts, opinions and convictions. Many of these images are contrary to the truth and and often in conflict with the Cycles of Nature.

The Intuitive Learning Process

There are three stages our mind goes through in learning to comprehend a situation or idea:

1. Sensory Perception is the process in which we decipher information that is received in the cerebral cortex from the lower sensory or motor area. It is the perceiving or intuitive act that we receive when we see something, touch or feel something, hear or smell something. In turn, we deduct a situation in our minds based on these small, intense discoveries.

2. Surrender is the action of yielding one's person or giving up the possession of something or into the power of another. By letting go, it leaves us exposed, opened, vulnerable, defenseless. Only by surrendering, are we completely and fully able to allow the universe to take over and truly lead us to the most natural and simple path. By allowing this path of least resistance into your life, you receive what is intended!

3. Illumination is receiving power! There is nothing more enlightening than looking at something you do not understand or quit comprehend until that moment when suddenly, it becomes so very clear to you, that you just cannot believe you did not see it in the first place! This self-discovery, or illumination we experience is one of the greatest gifts we can receive. This is due, in many ways, to our sensory perceptions which takes place in this discovery process and the ability to allow ourselves to surrender.

This Intuitive Learning Process is something we can apply to ANY situation in our lives! Whether learning a craft, understanding the computer, or accepting any given situation, this process will help you to "open your mind" and allow new ideas, new creativity, and new insight to flow freely. Try it!

The Power of Spirituality

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

To recognize a power that is greater than our own is to recognize our Spirituality.

We understand the mind/body relationship to be inspired by alignment with one's Highest Spiritual Principle and by that awareness we can choose Truth.

Spiritual health is often considered a condition marked by a diminished sense of fear and the daily experience of unconditional love, joy, gratitude, and a personal relationship with your God (1.) (or an awareness of an inner source of infinite power and compassion.)

Religion can play a part in guiding us to the path of Spirituality. BUT, religion is simply a bridge to Spirituality. There are many religions, but only one spiritual truth. This spiritual truth is the journey home to your Self; and the understanding of your emotional courage, truth, and honesty. What is important in life are the good works of love that we do for others.

Spirituality means shining a light into the darkest corners of our world and developing our capacity for compassion for those who are suffering and working for justice for all. (2.)

Surrendering to our higher powers so that your Spirit can orchestrate the infinite correlation of details that are necessary for the manifestation of your desires. (3.) These are the benefits you'll receive when you surrender to a higher power.

Spirituality can be found anywhere. You can experience it in a church or temple, in the revel of nature, in a yoga, dance or exercise class, in the darkest, most unlikely place. Spirituality is a state of mind. It is an experience that brings you closer to the realization of life's truths. It can be found when facing fear, enjoying simplicity or contemplation.

Below you will find Spiritual Truths from all the World's religions. You will find similar concepts throughout each of them, no matter how varied in beliefs they may be.

The Golden Rule

You shall love your neighbor as yourself. - JUDAISM: Leviticus 19.18

Treat others as thou wouldst be treated by thyself. - SIKHISM: Adi Grandth

Desire not for anyone the things that ye would not desire for yourselves. - BAHΑ'Ν FAITH: Gleanings 66

That nature is only good when it shall not do unto another whatever is not good for its own self. - ZOROASTRIANISM: Dadistan-i-Dinik

All things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. - CHRISTIANITY: Matthew 7.12

Not one of you is a believer until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself. - ISLAM: Forty Hadith of an-Nawawi

Hurt not others with that which pains yourself. - BUDDHISM: Udana 5.13

Regard your Neighbor's gain as your own gain and your neighbor's loss as your own loss. - TAOISM:T'ai Shang Kan Ying P'ien

Never do to others what would pain thyself. - HINDUISM: Panchatantra 3.104

Do not do to others what you do not want them to do to you. - CONFUCIONISM: Analects 15.23

Remember, spiritual lessons are encrusted in our daily life experiences as jewels. They are made available to everyone who wishes to pay attention and listen.

References

1. Wellness I.Q. Test by Dr. Robert Ivker, president of the American Holistic Medical Association.

2. Spirituality and Health Magazine

3. Seven Spiritual Truths: www.holisticlearningcenter.com/truths.html

4. Spiritual Truths of World Religions: http://www.bci.org/carlisle/truths.html

Stretching As A Pain Remedy

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Next to breathing and breath work, stretching is the most beneficial exercises we can do for better health. Done in tandem, breath work and stretching are the best support for easing aches, pain, tension, headaches, tight muscles and unexplained pain elsewhere in the body.

Just as there are different types of flexibility, there are also different types of stretching. Stretches are either dynamic (meaning they involve motion) or static (meaning they involve no motion). Dynamic stretches affect dynamic flexibility and static stretches affect static flexibility (and dynamic flexibility to some degree). When done properly, stretching can do more than just increase flexibility. Benefits of stretching include:

*enhanced physical fitness
*enhanced ability to learn and perform skilled movements
*increased mental and physical relaxation
*enhanced development of body awareness
*reduced risk of injury to joints, muscles, and tendons
*reduced muscular soreness
*reduced muscular tension
*increased suppleness due to stimulation of the production of chemicals which, lubricate connective tissues
*reduced severity of painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea) in females

Stretching your body's muscles will actually enhance the healing process. Long, slow static stretching will help to increase blood flow and circulation, eliminating stasis and help to warm and invigorate the muscles and in turn lubricate the ligaments and joints. One good over all stretch for your body is to lie on the floor and gently bring your knees up to your chest. Once there, put a little pressure on your knees with two hands. Gently raise your head up toward the knees. Breath, in, out, in out.....slowly. Stretch, then relax. Repeat.

One of the best over all stretches is the Sun Salutation. You can find it here.

Also find other exercise information and stretching here.

Stroke: Recognize the Signs

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Stroke is often referred to as a brain attack. It is considered the No. 1 cause of adult disability and the No. 3 cause of death in the United States. It striking more than 500,000 people every year. A stroke can happen at any age.

It is important to recognize stroke symptoms and act quickly. The effects of a stroke may include paralysis, poor memory and loss of speech.

Common stroke symptoms seen in both men and women:

-Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg (often on one side of the body)
-Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
-Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
-Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
-Sudden severe headache with no known cause

Women may report unique stroke symptoms:

-Sudden face and limb pain
-Sudden hiccups
-Sudden nausea
-Sudden general weakness
-Sudden chest pain
-Sudden shortness of breath
-Sudden palpitations

The acronym F.A.S.T. is a good way to recommend the signs of a stroke.

FAST stands for:

• Face: This tells you that if a person's face is drooping around the eye or mouth, this could be a sign of a stroke. If a person's face appears to be drooping and they are experiencing numbness, they could be having a stroke. Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

• Arm: This means you should check for arm weakness. A quick test is the inability to raise both arms over head. Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

• Speech: Check for speech impairment, such as slurred speech or difficulty repeating simple phrases. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Are the words slurred? Can they repeat the sentence correctly?

• Test: This is a reminder that if you do suspect a stroke, use the FAST method and seek medical attention. If the person shows any of these symptoms, time is important.

Spotting a stroke in a timely manner could allow clot-busting medications to be administered and other treatments to begin. If symptoms are spotted within three hours of onset, these people might be eligible for clot-busting medication.

One of the problems with stroke symptoms is that many people ignore them. For some, it's too late when they get to the hospital to do effective treatment options. People often think their symptoms are a big deal.

The first few minutes of a stroke are critical. Call 911, and seek attention right away.

Coping with Sweet Cravings

by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac.

Sweet cravings have many causes, but here are some suggestions:
*What, when and how much you eat play an important role in regulating how well your body manages blood sugar levels.
*Keep to a low fat diet and eat three meals a day.
*Avoid simple sugars, which may increase your appetite. If you are hungry in-between meals, then have a small healthy snack.
*Increasing the fiber content of the diet may satisfy your hunger more and lessen the calories you consume. Soluble fiber, such as psyllium husk, is great in achieving this, as well as keeping the colon healthy.
*Eat three meals each day. This is important for blood sugar regulation. Lessen your carb intake for each meal. By dinner you should have a very small portion of carbs (cup of rice or potatoes) or none at all (just your meat-chicken, fish, turkey, beef and a large portion of vegetables).
*If you are thirsty drink water.
*If you are overweight, eat smaller portions.
*Reduce your intake of fat.
*Keep sweet and fatty foods to a minimum.

EXERCISE
Stay active: Regular exercise helps your body lower blood sugars, promotes weight loss, reduces stress and enhances overall fitness.

SLEEP
Get enough rest. Our system regulates itself during sleep and there is a new study out that suggests the 7-8 hours of sleep can also help in weight loss.