I was sifting through a stack of articles when I rediscovered one from Yoga Journal, called Begin Again by Mirka Scalco Kraftsow. It covers several strategies to help guide one to new beginnings.
Read MoreI hear a lot of conversation about what does massage and bodywork do, does it really work and, if so, how does it work? A study from the Buck Institute for Research on Aging in 2012 provides some clues. The study looked at the changes in muscles cells in young men who received massage after doing a hard workout. The analysis of the muscle tissue revealed that massage reduced the production of compounds that cause inflammation. Researcher Dr Simon Melov suggests that the reduction in pain associated with massage may be similar to the mechanism of conventional anti-inflammatory drugs. In addition, massage promoted the formation of mitochondria, organelles in our cells that are responsible for energy production.
Read MoreKnees take a surprisingly large load in activity. If your knees sometimes get crabby, Structural Integration may benefit you by improving alignment and releasing strains in your structure. However, I also think it’s important to pay attention to the strength of the muscles that support the knee. This video (also, below) from Hilton Head Health shows exercises that you can do at home without any special equipment.
Read MoreAre you a runner? As the snow melts and the temperatures warm up, you might be thinking of switching from the treadmill to taking workouts outside. I hope you are also thinking about your running technique. I like the information on Good Form Running. The four main topics are posture, midfoot, cadence and lean. If you are ready to practice some new running habits, this video discusses transitioning from “common running form” to “good form.”
Read MoreA friend recently told me about making nut butter fudge in the freezer and it is pretty great! I have made it with sunflower seed butter and almond butter and am very pleased with the results.
Read MoreIn the US, we collectively waste about 40% of our food. This is an issue in part because hunger remains a significant problem in our nation. It also means all the water, energy and human effort to grow and transport that food is also wasted. The money paid to buy the food is wasted as well.
Read MoreA home practice of yoga can provide many benefits. It can help maintain the effects of structural integration and other bodywork, help reduce and manage stress, and help manage pain. A few minutes of yoga done several days a week is a worthwhile investment in your overall health.
Read MoreI had lunch with friends today, some whom have plans this year for major life overhauls related to their diet and health. January 1st is a popular time to start new, healthy habits. I’ve done it, myself.
Read MoreI recently read a book called Your Are Not Your Pain by Vidyamala Burch and Danny Penman. This book is about mindfulness-based pain management. Their organization in England is called Breathworks. They offer online courses and downloads, and sometimes have classes in the US.
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