Apple a Day

Down to Earth

2011-12-22T21:26:00.001+11:00

The best thing about summer is the food. I love basil and tomatoes, mangoes and peaches, berries and cherries and chillies.

But what I love most is feasting on food I've grown myself.

The problem is that I've got a concrete backyard so I'm limited to a few pots and hanging baskets. I've also got decidedly un-green fingers.

But with the festive season leaving the family and me a bit out of whack, I did some research and found I could plant my way to better health. The ibook Grow Your Own Medicine: A Guide to Growing Health-Giving Plants in Your Own Backyard by Mim Biem has inspired me to give gardening another go.

So here's a run down of the nourishing herbs and foods I'll be attempting to grow in Bec's backyard.

Basil - goes with almost everything, but is also a powerful antispasmodic, antiviral, antibacterial stomach soother.
Chilli - improves blood sugar levels, heart health and boosts circulation.
Fennel - aids nausea, bloating and helps digestion. The seeds are the richest source.
Garlic - strengthens the immune system, good for blood circulation, colds and flu.
Lavender - soothes and calms (not a food I hear you cry? Try lavender scones - they're delicious).
Mint - great for digestion, circulation and nausea.
Parsley - good for liver function, boosting the immune system and a source of iron and vitamin A.
Rosemary - antiseptic, antibacterial, cleansing and detoxes the body, supports the liver and combats cirrhosis.
Strawberries - full of antioxidants that also help to lower blood sugar levels.
Tomatoes - full of vitamin C as well as lycopene, which can prevent certain types of cancer.

By growing your own you're being nurturing your body, your tastebuds, your planet and your wallet. What are you waiting for? Get down and dirty.

Merry Christ-mess

2011-12-15T10:49:00.000+11:00

Ah, the festive season. Apparently 'tis the season to be jolly. Sorry if I sound like Scrooge but I'm just not feeling it.

The media's hung up on fiscal stress this festive season but it's not my pocket that's suffering. I braved my local shopping centre this week. I got shoved in the lift, elbowed in Target and scowled at in the supermarket.

At home, heightened expectations of 'family time' or feelings of isolation, the pressure to shell out and free-flowing booze all add up to a serious health (and wellbeing) hazard.

So here are my 'better late than never' tips for a stress-free Christmas:

Be realistic. If you bicker with the family all year round, don't expect Christmas with The Waltons. Keep family gatherings short, don't discuss politics or religion or parenting. Don't get too drunk. Send everyone on their way with a smile. Then bolt the door and breathe.

Say no. No, you don't have to go to every Christmas party. No, you don't have to buy presents for the cousins you haven't spoken to all year. No, you don't have to make a croquembouche. Cut yourself some slack.

Maintain healthy habits. Whether it's alcohol or food, over indulgence is all too easy, but hangovers and an expanding waistline will just add guilt to the mix. Make "everything in moderation" your mantra, get plenty of sleep and make time for some green exercise.

Take a break. Christmas can end up being all about other people but its essential that you take some time for you. Meditate, take a walk, listen to music, read a book, breathe deeply.

Remember, it's just one day of the year. Be good to yourself this Christmas. And please, don't go shopping without full body armour.

The Slow Parent

2011-12-09T10:14:00.001+11:00

It’s 4pm on a sunny Tuesday. My 19-month-old has just mastered climbing the steps to the slide. But no one’s here to watch my genius in action. The park’s deserted. Where are all the kids?

Apparently they’re at yoga, football practice, ballet, Italian lessons or surfing the internet. And that’s just the pre-schoolers. They have structure and schedules. They have committed parents. They’re going to grow up to be a success!

I didn’t shell out for gymbaroo. I left it too late to enrol him in swimming lessons. So far he’s unilingual. Is my baby going to get left behind?

Of course, I went to my old friend Google for affirmation and found Carl Honoré, author and champion of the Slow Parenting movement. According to Honoré, “hyper-parents” who have their foot on the accelerated learning pedal could be creating stressed-out kids who have so much adult-dictated routine that they never learn to stand on their own two feet.

As usual, it’s all about balance, but this time it’s balance that seems achievable. I’m going to remain calm. To talk and read to my boy and give him the time and space to think. It’ll be hard, but I’ll let him take a few risks. Perhaps even allow him to fail occasionally. I’m going to try and treat him as a person rather than a project. The fact is he’s the one who’s happy, healthy and hang-up free. By slowing my parenting down, I might just learn something from my little genius.

Work/Life Balanced?

2011-12-01T15:30:00.001+11:00

As 2011 comes to an end, I’ve been thinking about the ‘work/life balance’ phenomenon. What is it? Where can I get it? And how can I keep hold of it?

Right now, my scales are tipped heavily towards ‘work’ and I’m feeling somewhat undernourished in the ‘life’ department (family, friends, exercise, spirituality and fun).

Failing to achieve the elusive work/life equilibrium was beginning to make me feel, well, like a failure! So I was relieved when I stumbled across Michael Van Osch, a coach, author and speaker who believes that ‘work/life balance’ is total fallacy.

With a mere 20% of us feeling truly fulfilled by our work, it’s no wonder that ‘balance’ feels unattainable. Instead, Van Osch suggests we shift our focus to ‘alignment’; aligning who we are – our passions, strengths, preferences and goals – with what we do for a living.

This makes perfect sense to me. Delving into my work history has been a little painful, but I’ve discovered that I feel happy, energised and fulfilled when I'm able to work creatively and autonomously on projects that feel 'worthwhile' in an environment where I feel valued.

Simple eh? Maybe not, but it's given me something to work towards. This week I’ve resumed both my yoga practice and writing this blog. These small but significant steps haven't brought me to alignment quite yet, but they’re definitely taking me in the right direction.

How ‘aligned’ are you? I’d love to hear your insights, thoughts and tips.

Daily Bread

2010-04-19T12:23:00.000+10:00

I'm not sure if you've noticed, but it seems that more and more people just aren’t getting their daily bread.

Personally, I love bread and pasta and all things wheat-based, but it seems that a lot of modern bodies simply can't process the grain that used to be a major diet staple.

Although I’m happy to make flourless cake and go bread-less when a wheat-intolerant mate comes over for dinner, it does make you wonder why wheat intolerance is increasing.

According to a report on NaturalNews.com, the wholesome content of our bread has dwindled significantly over the past hundred years or so. In the 1900s, bleaching flour became the order of the day and grains were no longer allowed to sprout before being milled. Today, some real nasties (including fungicides, pesticides, insecticides and chlorides) are used in the bread-making process to keep our loaves looking white and ensure they have a long shelf life.

It's no wonder our bodies are reacting with symptoms such as cramping, diarrhoea, bloating, constipation, nausea and itchy eyes and throat.

The best breads to eat are sprouted grain breads that have to be refrigerated. You can find them in some health stores but they can be expensive. Dark whole rye and pumpernickel are also good choices as they have many of their nutrients in tact. Wheat-free grains include spelt, rice, corn, quinoa, millet, buckwheat and amaranth. And remember, wheat flour is often used as a thickener in other foods. Luckily, labelling laws are stricter than they used to be so look for products labelled gluten free.

So choose carefully and enjoy your daily bread.

Green Exercise

2010-04-12T19:13:00.000+10:00

The Melbourne nights are drawing in and suddenly it’s getting harder to get out of bed in the mornings. I’m not much of a winter person. I love the summer and find it much easier to stick to my exercise regime when the sun’s shining.

For me, maintaining a regime of winter exercise is all about looking beyond the gym and getting back in contact with nature. Somehow it’s much easier to sustain the motivation to stay fit when you’re outdoors.

Outdoor or 'green exercise' can include anything from Tai Chi in the park to walking along the beach, hiking in the mountains or surfing at sunrise.

According to Jules Pretty, a professor of environment and society at the University of Essex, green exercise delivers health benefits that include improved mood and self-esteem, and can even lower blood pressure.

Research shows that interacting with nature can positively impact our health and wellbeing, relieve stress, and promote concentration and clear thinking. This is due to the stimulation of the changing scenery and terrain and the mood boost that comes from being outside in the sunshine.

Luckily, Melbourne’s parks, gardens and beaches make it easy for us to get outdoors. Take the time to wander in the great outdoors today, even if it’s just for 20 minutes at lunchtime. I guarantee your body, and mind, will thank you for it.

Don't Panic!

2010-03-30T19:26:00.000+11:00

Anxiety – it lurks in the shadows and used to be something that no one admitted to. But many of us have fallen prey to it at some stage or another.

I remember when I had my first panic attack about a decade ago. I was on my way to work when my heart started to beat furiously. Then I lost my vision. I thought I was dying and grabbed at some poor commuter to help me off the train. After a couple of minutes, my vision returned but I felt like a freak. It scared the hell out of me.

Since then, I’ve equipped myself to deal better with my anxiety issues. I’ve also learned that I’m not alone. Panic Anxiety Disorder Association Inc. (PADA) reports that 12% of Australians will experience anxiety and panic disorders at some point in their lives.

Physical symptoms of anxiety and panic include muscle tightness, heart palpitations, chest tightness/pain, dizziness, numbness, tingling and panic attacks.

When I first experienced acute anxiety and panic, my doctor only offered me sedatives or anti-depressants. Fortunately, there now are numerous natural alternatives that treat the cause rather than the symptoms.

First, as always, look at your diet and lifestyle. Eat lots of fruit and vegetables with a little meat and fish. Foods containing L-Tryptophan, such as turkey, help the body to relax. Relaxation exercises and meditation also play an important part in healing, as does talking with a qualified therapist.

Bach Flower Remedies aid in relieving a variety of emotional disorders. St John's Wort, Valerian and Omega 3 are said to relieve depression and maintain emotional balance, but consult a naturopath first. Anxiety can sometimes be the result of an iodine deficiency and it's recommended that anyone suffering from anxiety and panic symptoms have their thyroid checked.

Deep breathing is the body’s natural defence against anxiety. Try this breathing exercise. Yoga, acupuncture, holistic kinesiology and Bowen Therapy are also great ways to alleviate panic and anxiety.

When it comes to anxiety, the most important thing is not to suffer in silence. Get some expert advice and don’t let panic get the better of you.

Sitting Pretty?

2010-03-25T22:00:00.000+11:00

In my day job as a copywriter/editor, I spend most of the time sitting in front of a computer. Now as I’m eight months pregnant, and my bottom has been steadily increasing in size for some time now, I’m not so worried about the weight implications of my sedentary work culture. But consider the time us desk-bound folk spend sitting still at work, as well as while commuting, and the butt time really adds up – apparently the typical office worker is sedentary for 75 per cent of their working day. That can't be good.

Many of us try and do a bit of exercise a few times a week, but after a busy day, most of us will just want to collapse in front of the TV. According to a study by researchers including Dr David Dunstan from the Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute earlier this year, four or more hours a day of television increases your risk of death from heart disease by 80 per cent, and risk of death from all causes by 46 per cent compared with people that watch just two hours a day.

All up, including telly time, we could be sitting still for up to 15 hours a day.

So, apart from changing careers and cutting down on TV time, what can we do about it? Try the following methods to help you get off your ass:

Stand up when using the phone.
Move your rubbish bin/printer further away from your desk.
Take the stairs instead of the lift.
Walk over to talk to a colleague instead of sending an email.
Getting up to move around for few minutes or so every hour.
At home, do a bit of ironing whilst watching TV.

An attitude of gratitude

2010-03-18T21:02:00.000+11:00

Looking back on some of my posts recently, I’ve noticed a pattern: I like having a good whinge. Sadly, I often focus on what’s wrong rather than what’s right. Like most people, when asked what I truly want, I'd say that I just want to be “happy”. But what does this really mean and how can we make it happen?

Have a good think about what would make you happy - more cash, a new job, car or relationship? Your 'wants' might sound a bit superficial but keep digging and think about how you want to feel. It might be that your 'wants' actually represent increased feelings of freedom, self-confidence or love, and that's what would make you happier.

A few months ago, I got into the habit of writing a daily gratitude list, something I'm going to start up again. Some of the things on my list were as small as a text from a friend, a coffee made by my favourite barista or a home-cooked meal. Some were bigger, like good health, my loving husband, my wonderful family. Some days your list might be ridiculously long; other days it might be a struggle to come up with two or three things. It doesn’t matter – as long as what's on the list contributes to your happiness.

Getting into the habit of writing down and acknowledging what you’re grateful for will make you feel good. Even if you’re having a bad day, you can always think of a couple of things to go on the list and putting pen to paper will help you put things in perspective, release the day and put you in an ‘attitude of gratitude’ mindset. And, at the risk of sounding a bit ‘New-Thought' preachy, like really does attracts like. You’ll find the more you’re thankful for, the more of the good stuff you’ll get.

Beating the Monday blues

2010-03-15T17:21:00.000+11:00

It’s Monday again and I’ve got that sinking feeling. I’m tired and grumpy and the week’s barely begun. Thing is, everyone around me seems to be feeling the same...

Well apparently a study by Flinders University has discovered a cure for the Monday morning blues – stop sleeping in at the weekend.

Apparently our lazy Saturday and Sunday lie-ins, a must for most of us who need to catch up on sleep lost during the week, are messing with our body clocks.

The research team tested the theory by tracking 16 people over a weekend, asking them to go to bed a little later than they would on a weeknight, but sleeping in for an extra two hours.

By comparing saliva samples and hormone tests, the team found participants' body clocks had been delayed by 45 minutes, making them much sleepier than usual the next day. This was because the subjects' circadian rhythms – which determine patterns of alertness and tiredness – had been disturbed, creating an effect similar to jet lag.

By mid-week, most of us manage to get back on track but then we start staying up later, getting into ‘sleep debt’ again and perpetuating the cycle.

See my posts on the chi cycle, jet lag and insomnia for some handy hints on beating tiredness and sleep deprivation. Happy Monday!

Taming the Tiger

2010-02-17T19:35:00.000+11:00

Get ready to roar ladies and gents – on 14 February 2010, we entered the Chinese Year of the Tiger. The tiger is dynamic, powerful, unpredictable, courageous and explosive, so expect a turbulent year full of big changes.

In terms of your health, it’s a year to be proactive so you can ride out the storm.

In the Chinese calendar, 2010 is represented by the elements metal and wood. Metal corresponds to the lungs, colon, skin and immune system so this year you may be more prone to sinus problems, infections, asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, bowel problems, rashes, compromised immunity, arthritis and eczema. The wood element correlates to the liver, gall bladder and nervous system, which means 2010 may be bring increased stress and tension, depression, anxiety, gallstones, hepatitis and cirrhosis.

Combat this by eating foods that cleanse the liver, such as green leafy veg, carrot, beetroot and soy beans. Herbs and spices like dill, oregano, rosemary, sage, peppermint, turmeric, basil, coriander, fennel, anise, cardamom, ginger and parsley all boost the immune system. And I know it’s boring, but reducing your intake of dairy, alcohol, caffeine, sugar, wheat, deep fried and fatty foods, processed and refined foods will help too.

Regular exercise that strengthens the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, such as yoga and qigong, as well as breathing exercises and walking in the fresh air also can help you feel tip top at tiger time.

'Til next time, take care tigers - it's jungle out there.

Chocolate for Health and Happiness

2010-02-12T14:50:00.000+11:00

Excellent news! Just in time for Valentine’s Day, I can reveal that chocolate, the proper posh dark stuff, really is good for you.

OK, so it's no big secret - most of us already know that dark chocolate, like red wine, blueberries, spinach and green tea, is full of antioxidants, which can prevent or slow oxidative damage to our body.

But a Canadian review based on three recent studies has also found a link between eating dark chocolate and a lower risk of stroke or death after a stroke. One study found that the stroke rate was 22% lower in people who ate chocolate once a week. Another found that death from stroke was 46% lower in those who ate 50g of chocolate once a week.

Many nutritionists agree that a little dark chocolate is good for heart health. The benefits come through the flavonoids in cacao beans, which reduce fats and prevent blockage of the arteries.

In a separate 2009 study, researchers found that dark chocolate could also reduce emotional stress. Participants who were given 40g of dark chocolate every day for two weeks were found to have reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol, as well as other stress chemicals.

Sweet findings eh? Now obviously, too much of anything isn’t good for you and chocolate also contains its fair share of fat and sugar, but as a V Day treat, dark chocolate given with love is the ideal gift for body, heart and soul. Pass me the Lindt…

Bowen for Backs

2010-02-05T16:53:00.000+11:00

I’ve suffered on and off from lower back pain for a while and being 6 months pregnant isn’t helping much. I‘m doing yoga, taking vitamins and avoiding heavy lifting, but I’m a bit wary about treatments that rely on snapping and cracking my spine back into shape. I need a gentler touch.

A couple of years ago I was introduced to Bowen Therapy by a friend who used me as a guinea pig whilst training to become a practitioner. I love a local treatment and it doesn’t come much more ‘local’ than Bowen; Geelong’s Tom Bowen developed this holistic and non-intrusive therapy around 50 years ago.

Bowen is safe for everyone, from children and pregnant women to arthritis sufferers and the elderly, and can be carried out directly on the body or through clothing. Some people only require few treatments and others use Bowen regularly for general health maintenance.

During a session, the practitioner performs a series of gentle moves across fascia or soft tissue associated with particular muscle groups, tendons, ligaments or nerves. After each movement, the therapist leaves the room or pauses for the muscles to realign, allowing the body to respond and the healing process to begin.

On the day of the treatment, drink lots of water and abstain from rigorous exercise. Your Bowen therapist may also recommend exercises and stretches to maximise the potential effects of the treatment.

Bowen is a bit of a ‘cure all’ and can be used for musculoskeletal injuries, frozen shoulder, headaches, abdominal and digestive issues, fatigue, insomnia, stress and back and neck pain. If you’d like to give it a try, I’d recommend the lovely Nina George who’s based in Port Melbourne.

Music and Singing for Body and Soul

2010-02-01T12:07:00.000+11:00

Recently, I wrote a couple of articles for the wonderful WellBeing magazine on music and singing as 'medicine' for both body and soul.

I've had a fair bit of feedback about these articles so thought I'd pop the PDFs up on my website so you can have a read.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or comments. Enjoy!

Not Keen on Needles?

2010-01-29T11:19:00.001+11:00

Neither am I. The idea of acupuncture makes me shiver with fear - probably not the best reaction when you're having needles stuck into your flesh.

So I've been finding out about modern alternatives to traditional needle-based acupuncture that work on the same principles of manipulating the body's energy meridians to balance chi (or life energy) - the foundation of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

Shiatsu and tui na are massage therapies that use stimulation techniques based on acupressure. Shiatsu involves pressing and holding certain points for a couple of minutes each. Tui na, meaning ‘push and grasp’, primarily uses the back of the hand to quickly roll back and forth over the acupoints.

Polarity therapy uses a combination of three levels of touch (soft, medium and firm), verbal interaction, exercise and nutrition, depending on the needs of the patient, to balance and restore the natural flow of energy in the body.

Emotional freedom technique, sometimes called tapping for health, uses gentle touch to stimulate chi. It involves tapping key points along the meridians in conjunction with other neurologically stimulating actions to free blockages.

Reiki also employs very gentle touch, minimising hands-on manipulation. The practitioner allows energy to flow through the hands to the recipient while placing hands at various points on the body to energise, clear and strengthen chi.

It isn’t even necessary for practitioners to touch specific acupoints in order to restore balance. Reflexology massage accesses the body through specific points on the feet or hands. When the points are stimulated, the resultant flow of energy removes blockages, aids detoxification, improves circulation and digestion, and helps relieve stress.

Reconnective healing is a completely hands-free technique where the practitioner scans the body for energy blocks. With hands held above the patient, the healer sends high frequency waves through the patient's body to aid the healing process.

So you don't have to become a pin cushion to get your energy back in balance. I'd love to hear from you if you've tried any of these techniques.

The Big Sleep

2010-01-19T13:08:00.001+11:00

I'm so tired at the moment. Melbourne's weird weather has knocked me about and I've been having a run of disturbed nights. I'm fed up with blaming the moon or the poor unborn nipper I'm carrying about. I'm going to give him/her a complex.

Lack of sleep affects our ability to concentrate and make decisions - not ideal with things picking up at work after the holiday season. According to Sleep Disorders Australia, insomnia costs the Australian community over half a billion dollars each year in direct medical costs and up to 10 times that much in indirect costs such as lost productivity or sick days.

We all know that we need the elusive 8 hours a night, but what measures can we take to beat insomnia and get back on track to sweet dreams?

Only use your bedroom for sleeping - it's hard to relax when you're trying to kip in your office.
Try and get up and go to bed at the same time every day to help your body form a routine.
Avoid caffeine, cigarettes and alcohol, as these are all stimulants.
Try and get a bit of exercise every day, even if it's just a walk around the block after dinner.
Get into twilight. No, I'm not talking about Edward or Jacob - creating a twilight state for at least an hour before bed will help your natural body rhythms tune in with the fact that it's bedtime and wind down accordingly.
Meditation before sleep can help your mind and body relax.
Use warm milk, chamomile tea and valerian as natural alternatives to sleeping tablets.
Perhaps an old wives' tale but worth a go - soak your feet in cold water for 15-10 minutes before bed to draw the blood to the feet and away from your over-active mind.

For more information on good 'sleep hygiene', download a factsheet from Sleep Disorders Australia.

Holiday Hangover Detox

2009-12-29T12:48:00.001+11:00

Party time is in full swing and we're all guzzling back the booze like there's no tomorrow (apart from those who are up the duff and therefore designated drivers). It might feel pretty good now, but how many of us will cry "detox" come January?

Alcohol changes the body's chemistry and alcohol abuse can create a toxic liver, deplete nutrients and store poisons in the body. It's these 'leftovers' that can cause cravings.

There are hundreds of detox products and kits on the market, but here are some natural ways we can cheaply and easily cleanse ourselves from the inside out.

Drink loads of water - at least 10 big glasses a day.
Try spirulina to get some extra nutrients into your body (Vitamin E and B12, iron, calcium, antioxidants minerals and enzymes).
Milk thistle is a great liver cleanser, as are liquorice root and dandelion.
B vitamins are often referred to as 'detox vitamins' - make sure you're getting enough.
Exercising will increase the cleansing effect of a detox and a dry sauna after exercise will help you sweat those toxins out.
Dry massage (with a brush or loofah) to slough off dead skin cells and remove toxins.
Eat lots of fruit and veggies - try apple, celery, pineapple and berries juiced with a pinch of ginger and cinnamon. Dark green leafy veg is good too and fresh parsley is an antioxidant and good for digestion. Asparagus is a great blood cleanser and excellent for health bowel maintenance. Don't overcook your vegetables.
Avoid caffeine, sugars, processed foods, drugs and, of course, alcohol when detoxing.

Beating Jet Lag Naturally

2009-12-21T12:51:00.001+11:00

All my friends are abandoning me for Christmas. Well OK, not all of them but enough of them to make me a little bit bitter and jealous. Despite this, in the spirit of the season (good will to all men and all that), I've been looking into some holistic jet lag cures so you lucky jetsetters can make the most of your holiday downtime.

1. Sleep. A good sleep the night before you travel is essential. Switch off your phone, drink some warm milk and wallow in the bath with a few drops of lavender added. Take some ear plugs and an eye mask so you can snooze during the flight.

2. Herbs and teas. Try chamomile, valerian, daisy, arnica and club mosses. Avoid coffee and alcohol when flying (yes, boring I know - one glass of champagne probably won't hurt). Peppermint tea will help you digest that stodgy plane food and chamomile tea may help you drift off. If you're pregnant, check with your doctor before taking any herbs or supplements.

3. Water. Staying hydrated is essential but some of us forget to drink water when we fly. Keep bugging the crew and, if you can, ask them to leave a large bottle of water with you rather than half filling those tiny plastic cups.

4. Keep moving. Do a yoga or pilates class the day before, move about on the plane as much as possible and when you get to your destination, take a long walk. This will not only prevent deep vein thrombosis - staying active will also help you stay awake until your body can attune to the local time zone.

5. Massage. Any excuse, but massage stimulates the lymphatic drainage system, helping your body eliminate toxins, release tension in the muscles, and combat puffy eyes and ankles.

Happy holidays. Have fun in Bali, NZ, Europe etc and make sure you bring me back a present. Bah Humbug...

Love your Latte

2009-12-18T10:26:00.000+11:00

Can't give up your morning cuppa? Don't worry, your daily latte may be doing you more good than harm. According to a study by The George Institute for International Health at the University of Sydney, the consumption of coffee and tea is independently associated with a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

In fact, go crazy, have an afternoon caffeine fix too. Results of the study found that the more coffee you drink, the less the risk of diabetes, with each cup linked to a 7% risk reduction.

These results actually make sense in regards to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which views type 2 diabetes as a result of inefficiency of the digestive system. TCM uses tea and coffee medicinally to increase digestive efficiency. Obviously, type 2 diabetes is also linked to weight and lifestyle, and tea and coffee shouldn't be viewed as a cure for diabetes. However, it's comforting to know that Melbourne's much loved cafe culture is good for both mind and body.

Distance Healing

2009-12-16T08:32:00.001+11:00

A good friend of mine who has been dabbling in Reiki for a while, once did some 'distance healing' on me. Apparently, I was quite receptive until he mentioned fairy dust, to which my energetic self responded with a kind of spiritual 'up yours'... I hope now I'd be more open to a bit of fairy dust, especially at this festive time of year.

With Christmas and the new year on the doorstep, there's plenty of talk of sending prayers, thoughts and best wishes to loved ones and those less fortunate - distance healing in its most simple form. It's said that energy healing can be accomplished in at a distance just as easily as in person. So how does it work?

Our bodies, minds and spirits are all made up of energy rather than solid matter. Some have described the 'life energy' used by healers as a subtle energy that is faster than light energy. Many of us have felt a kind of telepathic connection with someone else, where we sense what is happening with them. An energy healer doing distance healing can sense the healee's energy in the same way. The healer will often use an object to bring them into closer contact with the healee - maybe a photograph or personal item.

If you feel like sending some good vibes out to those you love this Christmas, go right ahead. You can't do any harm if you have the right intention - just remember, when it comes to fairy dust, less is more...

Hyp-Yoga: The Perfect Combination?

2009-12-10T17:38:00.001+11:00

I just treated myself to the most wonderful relaxation massage. I'm 20 weeks pregnant at the moment - halfway through and grumpy about cramps in my calves and a sore back. So it was about time for a pamper.

Laying there, belly cushioned, I felt completely relaxed for the first time in ages. On the massage table, I made a pact with myself to do more of the things that make me feel that way. I floated back to my desk to find an email about a new phenomenon that's sweeping the US - Hyp-Yoga.

Created by three female certified hypnotists and yoga instructors, Hyp-Yoga sessions start with breathing exercises followed by a series of yoga poses combined with positive hypnotic suggestions. The idea is to use yoga to open up the body and heart and then use a whole body relaxation technique to induce a deeper state of hypnosis. The focus is on helping you achieve your personal goals and living a healthy, successful life.

Being a US-based practice, the Hyp-Yoga website is a little skewed to weight loss and looking younger, but it still sounds like a delicious combination and perfectly in line with my newly created pact. Can't wait for it to hit our shores. Let me know if you've heard anything.

In the meantime, I'm starting pre-natal yoga at Balaclava's Yoga Moves next week after a whole year off... wish me luck!

Kinesi What?

2009-12-08T11:12:00.001+11:00

A blend of eastern wisdom and western science, kinesiology is becoming more widely accepted, but the therapy is still a bit of an enigma. In short, kinesiology is the study of whole body movement. It encompasses a number of holistic health disciplines and uses the gentle art of muscle monitoring to access information about a person's wellbeing.

I’ve been seeing a holistic kinesiologist, Merryl Key, regularly for a couple of years. I don’t always need a physical ‘reason’ for my sessions with Merryl – I see them more as general maintenance that enhance my sense of wellbeing and help me work on areas of my life where there may be blockages. Post session, I often feel stagnant energy moving through the body. This sometimes results in an energy hangover, where I can feel down, have a good cry or even feel nauseous, followed later by a sensation of something clearing or shifting, creating a sense of lightness or balance in my body.

Responses to treatments can be strong and it is crucial to find a qualified kinesiologist that you click with.

Always curious, I attended a free one-day introduction to kinesiology at the Australian College of Complementary Medicine (ACCM) on Saturday 5 December. The day was informative without being overwhelming, with great facilitators in a welcoming environment. I‘d highly recommend the course to anyone who wants to find out more about kinesiology.

Find out more at the ACCM website. The college also has a 2-for-1 offer on student clinic sessions at the moment - two sessions for $30 - a bargain!

Meditation as Medicine

2009-12-04T15:05:00.014+11:00

The relaxing and calming effects of meditation are well known to many of us, but scientists and researchers now have concrete evidence that meditation can help not just the mind and soul, but can have an incredible impact on the body too.

A $3.8 million US study funded by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute has found that patients with coronary heart disease who practiced the stress-reducing Transcendental Meditation technique (TM) have an almost 50 per cent lower rate of heart attack, stroke and death compared to a matched group that didn't meditate.

The trial followed 201 men and women for nine years. The research subjects had an average age of 59 and were all diagnosed with narrowing of the arteries in their hearts.

Participants continued their usual medical care during the study, but half we randomly assigned to a group that practiced stress-reducing TM and the other half were placed in a non-meditating group that received health education classes covering standard cardiovascular risk factors.

Those in the TM group also recorded a significant reduction in blood pressure and reduced psychological stress.

The results of the study were presented on 16 November at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association in Orlando, Florida.

Source: www.mcw.edu

Struggling with meditation? Finding it hard to clear your mind? Try a music meditation session, where musicians guide the group meditation, giving you something tangible to focus on. I'd recommend Melbourne musician Garth Stone. Visit www.meditationevents.com.au

Vitamins for all Ages

2009-12-03T16:20:00.003+11:00

When it comes to vitamins, different generations require different nutrients. Even if you eat well, you may be missing out. Here's how to fill the gaps for the young, old, and in between.

TEENS AND PRE-TEENS
Calcium
Children typically need 1300mg a day but only 12% of teenage girls get enough calcium in their diets. Make sure their diet is rich in cheese, milk, yogurt, tofu and beans.
Iron
Girls need 15mg daily as they lose iron through their periods; boys need 11mg. To help absorption, pair iron-rich foods like red meat, eggs, poultry, fish and beans with foods rich in Vitamin C, such as broccoli, tomatoes, mango, oranges and capsicum. Always consult your doctor before giving children iron pills – high doses can be toxic.

ADULTS
Folic Acid
Folic acid is said to help prevent birth defects so pregnant women and those trying to conceive should take 400mcg daily. Folic acid is also thought to protect against some cancers and heart disease, so other healthy adults should take a slightly lower supplement. Everyone should try and eat lots of beans, dark green veggies and lentils.
Vitamin D
Studies suggest that Vitamin D can reduce the risk of several cancers. Your body produces Vitamin D from sunshine, so slap on the sunscreen and get outdoors.

OVER 50s
Vitamin B12
B vitamins are great for a healthy immune system and a sharper memory. Many older adults aren’t getting their daily 2.4mcg of B12, found in meat, poultry, milk, liver and fish. Vegetarians may need a supplement.
Calcium + Vitamin D
To prevent osteoporosis, aim for 1200mg of calcium daily, coupled with up to 1000mg of vitamin D for absorption.

Pain Free with Mint Tea

2009-12-01T12:33:00.003+11:00

Us ex-pats from the UK, already know that a cup of tea can cure anything from a common cold to a broken heart. But now there’s some medical evidence to suggest that a cuppa really can ease the pain.

Brazilian mint, also known as hyptis crenata, has long been used by traditional healers to treat ailments such as the flu, stomach problems, high fevers, and headaches.

But now a study by English (yes, of course English) researchers at Newcastle University, led by Graciela Rocha, has proven scientifically that Brazilian mint is a safe and powerful pain reliever.

In experiments with mice, the study found that Brazilian mint tea was as effective as some synthetic drugs such as Indometacin, a synthetic drug similar to aspirin. “Now the next step is to find out how and why the plant works," said Rocha.

Rocha and her colleagues plan to launch clinical trials to assess Brazilian mint's pain relief qualities in people.

Source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2009/nov/25/brazilian-mint-tea-pain-relief-drugs

Oil Pulling

2009-11-30T10:00:00.012+11:00

Ayurvedic oil pulling, or swishing, has been used for its oral and systemic health benefits for thousands of years. Now I have to be honest, I'm not too sure about this, but some people swear by it.

Oil pulling - which extracts toxins from the body - is said to cure about 30 systemic diseases, including headaches, migraines, diabetes, asthma, skin conditions, allergies, oral bacterial infections and gum problems.

So how's it done? First thing in the morning, before brushing your teeth, eating or drinking, take 1tbsp of oil (sesame or sunflower is best). Put the oil in your mouth, tilt your chin up and slowly swish, suck and pull through the teeth. Do this for at least 10 minutes, then spit it out. The oil should look like a thick, white foam, If it's still yellow, you haven't done it for long enough. Rinse your mouth really well and follow by drinking a couple of glasses of water.

Never swallow the oil as it will be full of parasites and bacteria; don't gargle; do it slowly; and don't use toasted sesame oil.

If you're unsure, consult a reputable Ayurvedic practitioner. Oh, and let me know how you go - I'd love to hear your feedback.

For more information, try oilpulling.com or earthclinic.com.

McCartney’s Meat-Free Monday

2009-11-23T13:21:00.002+11:00

As more and more people in first world countries go ‘flexitarian’ (people who still eat meat but who try to limit their intake of it and actively seek out regular vegetarian meals), celeb-vego Sir Paul McCartney has launched his ‘Meat-Free Monday’ campaign, which aims to get more people to reduce their meat intake in order to improve health and to combat global warming.

You probably know that eating veggies is good for you, but did you know that according to UN’s top climate scientist Rajendra Pachauri, “meat production puts more greenhouse gases into the atmosphere than transport”?

Have a vegetarian night this week. Make the most of seasonal fruit and vegetables like mango, banana, melon, pineapple, artichoke, cucumber, lettuce, peas, sweetcorn and tomato. For recipe ideas, try the vegetarian section at Taste.com.au or search for vegetarian recipes at Australian Gourmet Traveller’s website. Go on, make a cow happy today.

Turn up, Tune in

2009-11-19T10:17:00.002+11:00

Feeling stressed or blue? Turn the music up and have a good sing. Singing exercises major muscle groups and increases oxygenated blood flow. Psychologically, singing allows you to express and release a range of emotions.

Contemporary physiological studies on the effects of group singing or vocal performance on levels of cortisol (a measure of stress) and secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) (an endocrine defence against infection in the upper respiratory tract), have found that levels of sIgA significantly increase and cortisol levels reduce after group singing rehearsals, suggesting that participation in singing may enhance immune system functioning and even reduce stress.

For more information on music and singing for healing body, mind and soul, grab a copy of WellBeing magazine and flick to the article by yours truly. To see the full article online or download the PDF, follow this link.

Breathe to Relieve

2009-11-06T17:08:00.001+11:00

A bad day at work, traffic jam or an argument with a loved one can be enough to have us pulling our hair out. But stress and anxiety can be tricky to deal with, especially for the time (and cash) poor.

Breathing exercises are a great way to release tension. Slowing down your breathing short circuits the stress response, giving your brain the message that everything is ok.

This basic breathing technique may help you manage everyday stress and can even be practiced while sitting at your desk.

Close your eyes, focusing your attention inwards, and straighten your spine.
Place your hands on your ribcage.
With every inhalation feel the expansion of the front, side and back of your ribcage.
With every exhalation slowly contract your ribcage.
Imagine you are drawing energy into your whole body with every inhalation.
With every exhalation, visualise letting go of tension in your body.

Life is fast paced, but this breathing exercise can take you out of your head and bring you back into your body, making you feel grounded again. Best of all, it’s free! Try it for just a couple of minutes a day; surely we can all spare ourselves that?

Chi Cycle Healing

2009-11-05T16:26:00.001+11:00

I've been reading a lot recently about nutrition (being three months pregnant has made my life revolve around food. My old passions of wine, cheese and socialising seem to be out of the question now I'm constantly tired and prone to heartburn!)

Jost Sauer, a Queensland-based author, acupuncturist and speaker, has written some great articles on traditional Chinese medicine and getting in sync with the body's natural processes. Albeit sporadically, I've been trying to live by his chi cycle over the past week and I can honestly say that I'm feeling more energised.

Chi means universal life force energy and the cycle is all about achieving optimum balance. Here are the basics if you feel like giving it a go:

5-7am. Organ = Large intestine. Intent = Transform. Actions = Get up, drink water, evacuate bowels, stretch, meditate, exercise.
7-9am. Organ = Stomach. Intent = Balance. Actions = Be sweet to yourself, eat breakfast, arrive, become real.
9-11am. Organ = Spleen. Intent = Develop. Actions = Act, make decisions, work hard, think, communicate, achieve.
11am-1pm. Organ = Heart. Intent = Communion. Actions = Articulate vision and purpose, access your soul, spread the love.
1pm-3pm. Organ = Small intestine. Intent = Refine. Actions = have lunch, go slow, ride the wave.
3pm-5pm. Organ = Bladder. Intent = Alliance. Actions = Put cruise control on, go with the flow, feel the power.
5-7pm. Organ = Kidneys. Intent = Embrace. Actions = Switch off, acknowledge strength and skills, have sex, share a laugh.
7-9pm. Organ = Pericardium. Intent = Protect. Actions = Come home, feel safe, nurture, be yourself, be creative, have dinner.
9pm-11pm. Organ = San Jiao. Intent = Passage. Actions = Go to bed, go to sleep.

What a perfect day... find more info at http://www.jostsauer.com/