Dennis Newhook RMT, CYT
Immunity depends on the healthy circulation of blood and the constant movement of lymphatic fluid. Our blood, pumped by the heart, carries a host of protective chemicals and cells which aid in fighting foreign substances. Lymphatic fluid, unlike blood, is "pump-less" and so it must rely on the action of muscles, joint movement, and gravity to make its way through the body. Carried in lymphatic fluid are specialized cells called lymphocytes, the main warriors of our immune system. Taking a little time everyday to stretch, be active, and rest (especially with the legs elevated above heart level!) can greatly improve the circulation of these vital fluids. In addition to improving overall circulation, taking a few minutes each day to mindfully stretch and observe the breath gives you an opportunity to pick up on the subtle warning signs that precede a full blown cold or illness. Knowing when you need to slow down and get more quality rest goes a long way in preventing an immune breakdown.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Strengthen Your Immune System
Karen Baker BSc, DC
At this time of year, everyone seems to be getting sick! So, we’ve chosen ‘improving immunity’ as our focus for this month’s issue. Whether we are overloaded at work, getting inadequate sleep, or having trouble adjusting to the weather changes, it doesn’t seem to take much to succumb to a simple viral infection. Our natural defenses are being challenged daily by toxins and chemicals in the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, and even the products that are absorbed through the skin (such as shampoos and cosmetics). Antibiotics and antibacterial cleansers, meant to protect us, can also kill benign and beneficial bacteria, eroding our natural protection against more dangerous bacteria, viruses and fungi, and contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant superbugs.
Strengthening our immune system is our best defense against colds, flu, allergies, asthma, and even diseases such as cancer. Some simple steps to boosting immunity include: eating lots of fresh nutritious food (organic, raw, whole, grass-fed), taking a good quality probiotic, increasing water intake, avoiding smoking and excess alcohol, keeping phone handsets and keyboards clean and washing hands frequently.
Refraining from using “anti-bacterial” cleaners, and if you are not immune compromised, don’t be afraid of a cold. The more practice our bodies get fighting infections (rather than depending on vaccines or antibiotics), the stronger our immune systems become.
There is also a growing body of scientific research to support the contention that chiropractic adjustments may have a beneficial effect on the functioning of both the nervous and the immune system (A. Cohn, JVSR, 09/30/08, pp 1-5). Studies have even shown chiropractic adjustments reducing the need for medications and hospitalization for asthmatics and quadrupling CD-4 immune cell counts in HIV positive patients. So give your immune system a boost, and get adjusted regularly.
At this time of year, everyone seems to be getting sick! So, we’ve chosen ‘improving immunity’ as our focus for this month’s issue. Whether we are overloaded at work, getting inadequate sleep, or having trouble adjusting to the weather changes, it doesn’t seem to take much to succumb to a simple viral infection. Our natural defenses are being challenged daily by toxins and chemicals in the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, and even the products that are absorbed through the skin (such as shampoos and cosmetics). Antibiotics and antibacterial cleansers, meant to protect us, can also kill benign and beneficial bacteria, eroding our natural protection against more dangerous bacteria, viruses and fungi, and contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant superbugs.
Strengthening our immune system is our best defense against colds, flu, allergies, asthma, and even diseases such as cancer. Some simple steps to boosting immunity include: eating lots of fresh nutritious food (organic, raw, whole, grass-fed), taking a good quality probiotic, increasing water intake, avoiding smoking and excess alcohol, keeping phone handsets and keyboards clean and washing hands frequently.
Refraining from using “anti-bacterial” cleaners, and if you are not immune compromised, don’t be afraid of a cold. The more practice our bodies get fighting infections (rather than depending on vaccines or antibiotics), the stronger our immune systems become.
There is also a growing body of scientific research to support the contention that chiropractic adjustments may have a beneficial effect on the functioning of both the nervous and the immune system (A. Cohn, JVSR, 09/30/08, pp 1-5). Studies have even shown chiropractic adjustments reducing the need for medications and hospitalization for asthmatics and quadrupling CD-4 immune cell counts in HIV positive patients. So give your immune system a boost, and get adjusted regularly.
The Power of Positive Thinking
Peter Wilansky-Traynor CHNP, PTS
Our thoughts are intimately connected to our health and well being. When times are tough, it is easy to be consumed with negative and depressive thoughts. Fearful thoughts and emotional stress make our physical body feel sluggish, heavier, and tighter. This body tension is physiologically stressful, in turn suppressing our immunity, opening the door to illness. Bacteria, viruses and parasites wait patiently for an opportunity to invade our bodies and make themselves at home, when resistance is low.
We need to be aware when we think negatively that we lower our defences, and increase our chance of becoming ill or diseased. Especially true in these economically turbulent times, we need to take control of our thoughts. Becoming conscious of persistent negativity and turning our minds in a more positive direction takes constant vigilance.
Cultivate your energy, or life force, by taking time for yourself everyday. Try the practice of Qi Gong, Tai Chi, or Meditation, all thought to increase your positive vibrations, keeping your mindset positive. Remember the law of attraction: like attracts like. So draw positive experiences into your life, including good health, starting with thinking positively!
Our thoughts are intimately connected to our health and well being. When times are tough, it is easy to be consumed with negative and depressive thoughts. Fearful thoughts and emotional stress make our physical body feel sluggish, heavier, and tighter. This body tension is physiologically stressful, in turn suppressing our immunity, opening the door to illness. Bacteria, viruses and parasites wait patiently for an opportunity to invade our bodies and make themselves at home, when resistance is low.
We need to be aware when we think negatively that we lower our defences, and increase our chance of becoming ill or diseased. Especially true in these economically turbulent times, we need to take control of our thoughts. Becoming conscious of persistent negativity and turning our minds in a more positive direction takes constant vigilance.
Cultivate your energy, or life force, by taking time for yourself everyday. Try the practice of Qi Gong, Tai Chi, or Meditation, all thought to increase your positive vibrations, keeping your mindset positive. Remember the law of attraction: like attracts like. So draw positive experiences into your life, including good health, starting with thinking positively!
Welcome
I am very pleased to present the first issue of our Lifewise Health & Wellness Bulletin. At Lifewise we strive to provide valuable service to our patients and the community. Our purpose is to help you achieve improved health and a well balanced lifestyle. We have put together this monthly newsletter, to keep you up to date on all that’s happening at the office, and to share with you some helpful health related tips. We hope you will find it a worthwhile read.
Yours In Health,
Dr. Karen Baker
Yours In Health,
Dr. Karen Baker
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