Welcome to Energy Wellness Tips!
(Most Energy Wellness Tips have referral links!)
Current Topics! Symtoms of Low Blood Sugar, On Taking Vitamins, NSAIDS (pain relievers), Cholesterol, Vaginitis (BV), Yeast Infection, Douching, Vaginal Dryness, Indigestion, Heartburn, Acid Reflux, Getting Your Calcium, Household Hazards, Artistic Expression through Body Art, Tinnitus, Meneire's, IBS, Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, Prescription & OTC Side-Effects, Dyslexia, ADD/ADHD, Pet Enzymes, Aura (Kirlian) Photos, Fiber, Heart Health, Alcohol & Breast Cancer, Anxiety, Constipation, Diarrhea, Memory Loss and Your 'Real Age', Stinky Sink Syndrome and "What You Need To Know About Vitamins!"
Re-energizing Tip #1: Take Multi-Enzymes! Having trouble with Indigestion, Heartburn or Acid Reflux?
Purchase some over the counter (OTC) Multi-Enzyme supplements. Your enzymes should contain Protease, Cellulose, Amylase and Lipase. They will relieve you of your symptoms if the problem is in not having the necessary digestive enzymes, in your 'gut' to break down your carbohydrates, proteins and fats. It is thought that capsule forms are better because they do not permit the enzymes to be destroyed in any way before reaching the intestines, but both tablets and capsules help to relieve indigestion.
A good brand to start with is Chewable Papaya Enzyme Plus by American Health. Do not confuse this with regular Papaya Enzymes, which often contain only papaya fruit and may cause gas and burping in some individuals. Use enzymes as directed on the label.
Another natural solution for upset stomach and heartburn is Artichoke Leaf Extract. Use as directed on your product.
Lose weight. Excess weight, especially around the middle, puts pressure on the sphincter muscle that keeps acid in your stomach and not in your esophagus.
Raise the head of your bed with blocks or sleep a little more upright on a pillow. Gravity will work for you and keep the acid in your stomach and not in your throat.
Sixteen studies have proven that weight loss and raising the head of your bed are the best methods for reducing heartburn.
Always check with your doctor if you have persistent problems. It could be a sign of more dramatic issues.
Re-energizing Tip #2: Getting your Calcium!
The best way to get your calcium is to eat it through your foods. Calcium needs other vitamins and minerals, such as Magnesium, in order to be of use in the body. When using supplements, make sure you buy a Calcium supplement that contains Vitamin D. Bones need 'D' in order to absorb Calcium. Supplements may contain Calcium carbonate, Calcium citrate or Calcium phosphate. Calcium carbonate can cause gas, nausea, vomiting and stomach pain. I recommend Calcium citrate, which is broken down easier by the body and does not interfere with Iron absorption. Calcium citrate also binds with oxylate in the intestine and thereby decreases the chance of kidney stone formation. Take Calcium with meals to further improve absorption and be sure to distribute your Calcium supplements throughout your daily meals. Visit 'The Importance of pH Balance' for more important information about Calcium and it's role in keeping your body pH balanced!
To get your Calcium needs from your foods, have more Whole/Raw Milk, Yogurt and Cheese (soft), Ice Cream (only the best with natural ingredients), Canned Salmon and Tuna (with bones), Sardines (in tomato sauce). Watercress, Bok Choy, Collard (and other leafy greens), Broccoli, Kale (if you haven't had Kale, it looks like Mustard Greens and tastes kind of like mild cabbage...yum!), Oranges, Yam, Sweet Potato, Asparagus, Baked Beans, Parsley and Peppermint (herbs), Yellow String Beans.
Magnesium must accompany Calcium. Foods containing Magnesium are Seafood, Parsnips, Tofu, Beans, Leafy Greens, Kelp, Nuts, Bananas, Avocado, Sunflower and Sesame Seeds, and Cashew, Brazil and Pine Nuts.
Vitamin D must accompany Calcium and Magnesium and may be found in Eggs, Salt-Water Fish, Dark Green Veggies, Liver, and Vitamin D fortified Dairy products. Our bodies can also manufacture our own Vitamin D if we receive 15-20 minutes of sunlight at least 3 times per week.
Note! Sodium (salt), caffeine and excess protein all cause an increase of calcium to be excreted in the urine. Keep this in mind the next time you have a soda, a coffee or black tea. You are inviting arthritis to live inside of you!
Warning! If you take only Calcium, with no Magnesium, excess Calcium may become toxic and you will not be able to relax your muscles!
Re-energizing Tip #3: How To Find House Hold Hazards!
Often, we would love to clean up the space we live in but we just aren't sure what we are to look for. The following website offers a head to toe, virtual tour of what to look for in your home to help keep you and your loved ones safe. Visit http://danpatch.ecn.purdue.edu/~epados/waste/house/mainmenu.htm
Re-energizing Tip #4: Creative Expression through Body Art
Artistic expression is one of the best ways to regain energy and enthusiasm for life. One way to express yourself is through body art. My youngest son, Josh, is one of the most talented individuals I know. His artistic ability to design tattoos is nothing short of amazing! If you are interested in self-expression through body art, visit www.redsouldragontattoos.com. From Celtic fairies to Tribal designs, you may find an image that matches your souls deepest wish for expressing....or framing! Contact Josh if you have a special tattoo in mind. He can create it for you!
Re-energizing Tip #5: Tinnitus and Meneire's Disease may be associated with Fibromyalgia or Arthritis.
If you suffer from Fibromyalgia or Arthritis, it may be causing that dreadful ringing in your ears! Tinnitus may be a symptom related to Fibromyalgia, which may or may not, also be a cause of Meniere's Syndrome, typically associated with vertigo, as well as ear noise, a feeling of pressure and hearing loss. The muscle tension that Fibromyalgia causes can cause dizziness and constant, or episodic, balance problems. In fact, some people with Fibromyalgia no longer have the ability to walk across parking lots, grassy fields, or walk down stairs without support of some kind. This tension, although only a theory, may also be the cause of Tinnitus. Many of those suffering from Fibromyalgia may also suffer from a near constant state of Hypoglycemia. Eating less refined carbohydrates and including protein with every snack and meal may help balance problems tremendously and help to reduce Tinnitus noise. You may be able to clear up the Tinnitus, if you work on your Fibromyalgia by finding ways to reduce stress. For more on Fibromyalgia, visit my Stress Syndromes page. Arthritis, especially cervical, may cause a pinching of the spinal nerves, which affect the blood vessels connected to the inner ear. I am currently researching as to whether pressure on the spinal cord can cause 'wrong signals' to be sent to the hearing center in the brain. Doctors don't want to discuss this with me much.
Re-energizing Tip #6: Would you like to know what side effects your prescriptions, supplements or herbs can cause?
Visit http//:www.pdrhealth.com. You will find listings of drugs (both prescription and over-the-counter), vitamins and herbs with explanations as to what they are used for, what to watch for (warnings) and, often, whether they can be used in conjunction with one another, or in conjunction with certain ailments. This is an amazingly understandable site with tons of information! This is where I go for information about side effects.
When tapering off of drugs, especially drugs such as Prozac, Paxil, etc., do it safely. For more information, visit http://tapersafely.org for natural and safe alternatives to these types of drugs. You may also call 1.877.252.2352 or 1.973.992.5811 or info@tapersafely.org for more information as well.
Re-energizing Tip #7: Understanding Anxiety (often related to Depression)
Anxiety becomes a problem when it causes feelings of inadequacy or powerlessness. Emotional 'bruises' often raise these feelings in the first place. When we are confused, hurt or frightened, our brain will search for the best way to cope. It searches everything inside and outside of ourselves as a means of finding some solution, sort of like an internet browser scanning for information. Thoughts then race and anxiety levels increase as the brain continues to search for more data in order to make a decision. The more the brain searches, the more your thoughts race and the more you feel your problem is unsolvable. This is because there are too many possibilities to choose from. This causes emotional conflict and leads to being pulled in two many directions, unsure of which solution is best. You become overwhelmed, are not sure which is the best, or even the most realistic, answer! This causes vacillation (going back and forth), and if some decision is not committed to, anxiety continues to grow. An individual can get to the point where they are unable to function normally. Self-doubt, low self-esteem and lack of confidence are the result. This soul becomes a 'splintered' personality.
Possible physical causes of Anxiety Attacks are as follows:
Cardiovascular Disease: High Blood Pressure, Irregular heartbeat, Mitrovalve prolapse and Angina.
Lung Diseases: Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis and Acute Asthma.
Endocrine Diseases: Hyperthyroidism, Diabetes and Hypoglycemia.
Neurological Diseases: Meniere's, Migraine, MS (Multiple Sclerosis) and TIA (Transient ischemic attack, better known as 'mini stroke').
What to Do?
Many times, when we make no decisions, it is because we fear making a mistake. We may feel we don't have what it takes to face the consequences of our decisions. We made be afraid of others. Or, we may be having to make a decision that will cause an equal amount of loss no matter what we decide, such as having to choose between security and happiness. The first thing to do is to get a medical evaluation to rule out anything physical.
Often our anxiety stems from childhood trauma, an over-protected childhood, separation anxiety, shyness or limited social interaction. You may be facing a separation from, or the death of, a loved one, loss of a home or income, marriage difficulties, natural disasters, illness or accidents that have affected you physically or emotionally. All of these things can cause anxiety and/or panic attacks.
When making choices, be bold! Try to make choices that would satisfy the soul the most! It is OK to make mistakes. It is normal to be afraid of change. The biggest mistake, is to worry so much about making a mistake, or to so fanatically resist change, that you remain in a painful state, rather than take risks and grow.
Anxiety can also be caused by underlying conditions such as bacterial infections, allergies, drugs, caffeine, nicotine, decongestants, appetite suppressants, hormonal fluctuations, a misguided adrenaline trigger, a brain neurotransmitter imbalance.
St. John's Wort may be an option. I suggest 300 mg capsules (containing 0.125% Hypericin) 3 x per day. It may cause photo-sensitivity (sunburn) and cannot be taken with certain foods. Caution! St. John's Wort cannot be taken with MAOs or other anti-depressents! It may also interfere with other drugs as well.
For more information on how to cope with Depression and Anxiety, visit 'Dealing With Negativity' and 'Is It Hot In Here?!'.
Energy Wellness Tip #8: Enzymes for Cats (and Dogs too!)!
A cat with food sensitivities may vomit more often, which wears down tiny teeth. Meat eaters evolved to depend on the enzymes already present in raw meat to help them digest it. When pet food is cooked, it loses its natural enzymes. Mud Bay offers Optagest to help dogs and cats digest their food. It contains added enzymes. This means less vomiting and a healthier, shiny coat! Visit www.mudbay.us for more information on natural health for pets. Visit 'Energy Wellness Recipes!' for more all natural pet tips!
Energy Wellness Tip #9: Kirlian Photography!
Have you ever wondered what your aura, your electro-magnetic field actually looks like? Well, now you are able to see it for yourself. live and in color, as it moves in and around you! The Aura Video Station is a remarkable and safe tool that reveals the energy wellness condition of your aura and the effects of wellness therapies upon it. Each of your colors (and most of us have two or three) has it's own meaning, which you will be provided with as well as the ability to possess a full 32 page report that explains not only your aura activity, but your chakra energy levels as well! When I last checked, Phoenix Rising Metaphysical Shop, in Port Townsend, WA, offers this service for $35.
Energy Wellness Tip #10: Have you ever wondered how old you really are?
Visit http://www.realage.com. Take the test and see what your internal age really is! You'll receive a personal detailed report with suggestions on what to do to get healthy and stay that way. No charge! No kidding! These are the same folks who put out the book, 'You On A Diet'. A great book!
Energy Wellness Tip #11: Alcohol can cause breast cancer in women!
If you have cancer, or a risk of cancer, do not drink alcohol. You might also avoid those foods, such as Soy, that are rich in phyto-nutrients and may aggravate your condition.
Energy Wellness Tip #12: Heart health concerns?
Make sure you get enough Vitamin E (100-400 IU of d-alpha form), B-Complex, Coenzyme Q10 and Magnesium. These are the biggies!
Energy Wellness Tip #13: Get the kind of Fiber you need for IBS!
There are two types of fiber, soluble and insoluble. For those with IBS, this can mean the difference between suffering and well-being.
Insoluble fiber is rough, doesn't dissolve and increases frequency, water content and looseness of bowel movements. For someone with IBS, this can cause pain and diarrhea. Insoluble fiber is found in wholegrain breads and cereals, wheat bran, fruits and veggies.
Soluble fiber is soothing, absorbs excess water, pushes through impacted fecal matter and helps to regulate bowel movements by regulating intestinal spasms. Choose oatmeal, rice, potatoes, soy, barley, pasta, beans and oat bran as a means of getting in your daily fiber. For more tips on Fiber, visit,'Eating, Naturally!'.
Energy Wellness Tip #14: Is your home sick?
We get sick in many ways, including from the materials and electrical outputs in our homes and neighborhoods. And excellent reference, and interesting read, is 'The Sick House survival Guide' by Angela Hobbs, 2003.
Energy Wellness Tip #15:
Vaginal Bacterial Infection with lab test results of Strep B.
Strep B is a nasty germ that can sometimes be found in combination with BV, such as Gardnerella. Strep B often migrates to the vaginal interior from the inner bowel. (This is not the same as germs migrating from the rectum to the entrance of the vagina.) To reduce Strep B in the bowel, take a high dose lactobacillus, (acidophilus), of the refrigerated kind, as directed on the label, in conjunction with your BV treatment to reduce the crossover of Strep B into the vagina from the bowel.
You might also try Tea Tree Oil Suppositories, one vaginally, 2x per day or as directed. For more information visit, "Is It Hot In Here?!" or 'Stress Syndrome Management'.
Energy Wellness Tip #16: Easy Cure for Gardnerella!
Studies have proven that pregnant women, with Gardnerella, who performed a one time douche using 3% Peroxide, were tested negative for any Gardnerella 3 weeks later! In fact, they had no type of BV at all. This is over-the-counter, 3% Peroxide.
DO NOT try this unless you are absolutely sure you NOT allergic to Peroxide!
You might also try this homemade douche. Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar and the contents of 2 capsules of lactobacillus to 1 quart of lukewarm water. Lie in the tub and insert douche applicator half way to two thirds of the way into the vagina. Hold the vaginal lips closed so the water cannot escape quickly, but instead flow slowly out. Do this only every 3 days.
If you also have vaginal atrophy, rawness or burning along with Gardnerella, you may want to experiment by applying a little peroxide first to check for burning. As always, please see your doctor for diagnosis for any symptoms you may be having. See 'Stress Syndromes' for other treatments for BV and Yeast.
You may also soak a tampon in plain yogurt and apply internally. Pat yogurt on the outside of the vagina and change tampons every 3-6 hours. You will want to use a panty liner to prevent stains.
Energy Wellness Tip #17: Constipation!
Beware of those OTC (over the counter) and herbal concoctions that can irritate the intestines and cause dependency, not to mention side effects such as cramps and diarrhea. Try crushing 1 teaspoon of Flaxseed and placing it in hot water, juice, smoothies or over your food up to 3 times per day. Keep Flaxseed in the freezer to keep it from losing it's valuable Omega 3 oils. For a stool softener, try using mineral oil as directed on the bottle. I have also heard that 1 teaspoon of olive oil in the morning can do the trick nicely. Read about Fiber under Energy Wellness Tip #14 (above).
Other things to try:
Drink 2 glasses of water (or 1 glass of water with 1 tablespoon of Honey) every morning upon rising, or eat 1-2 dried figs each morning upon rising. This is not recommended for those with blood sugar problems.
Swallow 1 teaspoon of Olive oil each morning with a glass of lukewarm water until regulated, then cut back.
Energy Wellness Tip #18: Do you or your child have Dyslexia (learning disabilities, most often Dyslexia) or ADD/ADHD (behavioral problems, most often hyperactivity)?
They say that there are two ways you can help your child, or yourself, become more focused. One is performing eye exercises that cause focus on an object while having to make decisions. This strengthens the 'brain learning center'. My thought is, that video games, with set time limits, might be an answer. There is the need to concentrate, follow patterns with rapid eye movement and to make quick decisions. So, perhaps, 30-45 minutes of gaming per day would not be such a bad thing after all!
The second thing is that's been discovered, and proven, is that children training in athletics improve while they are in training, even better when they have to 'watch the ball' alot. They believe symptoms of Dyslexia and ADD/ADHD improve because they have to become more 'balanced' physically toward sensory perception. When the ball comes at you, you have to be in shape and ready. This causes the child to be more 'ready' in his 'brain learning center' and it also helps to 'exercise' inner ear balance and coordination. Inner ear disorders are thought to be a cause of LD (learning disabilities).
The Best Supplements for LD & ADD/ADHD are:
Omega 3's or Cod Liver Oil
Visit www.omegabrite.com for information and children's Omega 3 products. There are other brands as well. Just type in 'Omega 3s for Children' in your space bar.
Multivitamin w/Minerals including Zinc & Iron
Pycnogenol (antioxidant) works well for those with ADD, ADHD, LD and Memory Loss by protecting neurons from cellular death. It is known for reducing hyperactivity n children and adults.
The worst causes of LD & ADD/ADHD are from as follows:
Refined sugar, or too much sugar, in the diet. Orange juice (hidden allergy). Allergies to preservatives, food dyes, colas. Other allergens, such as mold, chemicals and certain foods, such as wheat gluten, eggs, etc. Stress can also mimic the symptoms of ADD in a person with Dyslexia!
Energy Wellness Tip #19: Memory Loss!
#1. Eat Hazel-nuts 9 days in a row. Start with 6 and add one every day til you get to 9.
#2. Eat more Kale. Kale is a cross between spinach and cabbage, but with a very mild flavor.
#3. Drink Sage tea. Add a pinch of herb to 1 cup boiling water. Strain and drink. You might want to add some honey.
#4: For more long term results, take Gingko Biloba capsules. Gingko increases blood circulation. Ask your doctor first!
#5: Take the antioxidant, Pycnogenol. It guards against Alzheimer's by protecting neurons from cellular death. For more on Pycnogenol, visit 'Energy Wellness Recipes!' and scroll to Skin Supplements.
Energy Wellness Tip #20: Diarrhea
The next time you have a bout of diarrhea, try munching on a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries, or have 1/2 cup of the juice in the morning and then again at night. You may also use blueberry extract (sometimes called bilberry). Place 16 drops in Chamomile or Peppermint tea and sip as needed. for more information on Diarrhea, please refer to 'IBS'.
Energy Wellness Tip #21: Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness can occur with the use of certain medications or be due to decreased estrogen levels in the body. If it is dryness during intercourse that concerns you, make sure the problem isn't, first of all, related to not being stimulated enough. You might try a lubricant, such a K-Y jelly, Astroglide or Lubrin from your drugstore. It must be water soluble and oil free, except for Vitamin E. Do not use vaseline, coconut, almond or other oils. They encourage fungal infections.
For hormonal problems, a mixture of a little Vitamin E and Honey, gently applied to the vaginal tissues, can increase vaginal lubrication. You should be able to decrease the amount and usage over time.
Or, you could use just Vitamin E as a night-time therapy. Prick a Vitamin E capsule and insert it into the vagina. Do this every night for 2 weeks, and then only 3 times per week thereafter. If you are menopausal, refer to "Is It Hot in Here?"
Energy Wellness Tip #22: Ischemic Heart Trouble
Ischemia is inability of the heart to contain enough oxygen to all of it's parts. It can be caused by the narrowing of the artery walls due to cholesterol or genetics. Angina (heart pain) is a common complaint and symptom. Heart problems can be helped, and sometimes reversed, by natural methods. Oolong Tea, Bananas, Cayenne Pepper and Vitamin C can help with Ischemia related to cholesterol damage.
Note: One cause of Angina is being born with one side of the heart larger than the other.
New information on Ischemic Heart Angina! Testosterone may help to improve the heart muscle and reduce signs of Ischemia that is unrelated to high cholesterol. Ladies, have your care provider run blood tests to see if you are deficient in Testosterone! Yes, we have it too! And, men have estrogen!
Energy Wellness Tip #23: Stinky Sink Syndrome
Do you have a sink drain or garbage disposal that is a 'stink hole' in your home? Use vinegar, citrus juice (or fruit) or a little baking soda to get rid of the stink fast! Go Energy Wellness Tips #3 and #14 to discover whether your home is healthy or not.
Energy Wellness Tip #24: Have your cholesterol checked!
There's good cholesterol (HDL) and bad cholesterol (LDL). Too much 'bad' cholesterol build up can cause a heart attack. How? Cholesterol builds up plaque in the arteries, clogging them, which means your blood can't pass through as easily. Think you might have high cholesterol, or know you do, but don't know what to do about it? Eat 1% dairy products, choose lean meats, skin free poultry, more fish and select whole grains, fruits and veggies high in fiber. Avoid liver, organ meats, egg yolks and full fat dairy. Don't use butter. Use a transfat free margarine instead. Also, get 30 minutes of exercise every day. Exercise increases 'good' cholesterol levels. It also lowers tryglycerides, which are blood fats. For more information on cholesterol, click here.
Energy Wellness Tip # 25: NSAIDS (pain relievers) can cause high blood pressure. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as Advil cause high blood pressure in 38% of users. Aspirin, Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen have less risk, but still cause high blood pressure in 26% of all users. (Information is based on studies reported by King 5 News.) FYI: Those sensitive to Aspirin should also not use Willow Bark.